Apparatus and method for sharpening a cutting tool, such as a knife. A sharpener includes a first support member, a second support member and a hinge assembly. The first support member supports a first abrasive surface and has at least a first guide at a selected end of the first abrasive surface. The second support member supports a second abrasive surface and has at least a second guide at a selected end of the second abrasive surface. A hinge assembly couples the first and second support member to facilitate movement of the second support member relative to the first support member between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the first guide is in facing relation to the second guide and the first abrasive surface is in facing relation to the second abrasive surface.