I could not make a quality knife without my felt platten. ( most important tool in my shop )
I do not use it for grinding blades but for handles and accessories like guards and butt caps.
It softens the edges and makes the lines flow together. Try one you will love it.
I also use it when I have...
Try IMG Electromark in Utica, NY
They make a number of enchants and are great to deal with.
http://www.img-electromark.com/catalog/electrolytes-cleaners/
For stainless I use the Electrolyte 94
Just got this finished, last one of the year.
420 SS with a 52100 core , dovetailed stainless bolster, G10 handle and an edges thickness of 0.010 .
This is the thinnest edge I have ever put on a blade and it is SCARY sharp.
I never know what to do with small left over pieces of my Damascus. So I weld a tang on and turn them into small kitchen knives.
These 3 have Iron wood handles, micarta spacers and stainless fittings with epoxy and pinned handles.