What sharpening tools and technique did you use (the more experienced guys will probably ask that before you get some useful advice)? Unless you were trying to put a bevel on flat piece of stainless (which it seems you didn't) it should NOT take that long. More life a few minutes per knife ...
There are many possible reasons for your difficulty. What stones were you using and what grit? Are you sure they were flat? It does sound like you're not getting to the edge though. Even a mediocre stainless should be able to take a good edge.
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