Stropping involves the following steps: 1. Preparation: Ensure that the strop is clean and free of debris. Some histologists apply a fine abrasive paste for better results. 2. Technique: Hold the blade at a consistent angle and draw it across the strop in a sweeping motion, alternating sides to evenly hone the edge. 3. Inspection: After stropping, examine the blade under a microscope to confirm that it is free of nicks and has a uniformly sharp edge.