The HSS i use is 1/8 to 3/8 sq. usually the larger size. Use a bench grinder with a fine wheel, that was how i was taught back in the dark ages at SIAST. You couldn't use machines except a grinder till you could sharpen a drill bit and a lathe bit by hand. Serves me well those skills i learned. I don't use a lot of carbide, have some but just seem to grab what i know best. I will grind some odd shaped bits up depending on the job.