If you've ever wanted to learn the art of knife-making, make a special gift for someone, or do a hands-on project for yourself? Now's the chance!
What is the difference between "Knife-Making and Bladesmithing"?
Knife Making is commonly referred to as "stock Removal" and is where we cut the shape of the knife out from flat stock steel and use grinders to create the entire blade, grind bevels and edges, and shape handles. These are 2 to 3 day classes.
Bladesmithing is the process of taking an ingot or piece of steel and hammering it to shape on the anvil before using grinders and files to finish the blade. These classes are more labor.
We offer one two-day, weekend Introduction To Knife-Making course at our shop once per month. Weekend classes are on the first Saturday and Sunday of each month from 8am - 4pm (or longer if needed). Our weekday Advanced Knife-Making classes are the 3rd week of the month and can be scheduled any three days between Tuesday and Friday of that week and will run from 8am - 4pm (or longer if needed).
We can change the outline and scheduling of the 3-day class to a 2-day class if available in the schedule.
Introduction Classes
Intro-1. This class covers the basic design, construction, and principles of knifemaking in a two day hands on format. Students are provided a 2x9 inch piece of steel do design and fabricate their knife from. Students will learn basic handle construction from provided wood handle materials. In addition students will learn basic leather sheath construction.
Intro-2. In this class students will get to practice the skills learned in intro-1 while learning more about edge geometry and grinding profiles. Students will be provided a 3x11 inch piece of steel to create their blade from. This class des not include a sheath.
Advanced Classes
Our advanced classes are 3 day courses for return students and students of Bladesmiths and Knifemakers who’s course curriculum we are familiar with. To take an advanced course you must have completed the introduction courses.
Advanced Classes included are.
- Full Tang With Bolsters
- Hidden Tang With Guard
- Frame Handle With Guard
- Hidden Tang With Guard And Pommel
- Take Down Bowie (must have completed Advanced 2,3,4 before signing up)
- Karambit
- Chefs Knives/Kitchen Cutlery
- Tactical Knives With Kydex Sheath
- Blades with Serrations
- Artistic Filing and Jimping on Tangs and Spines
- Al La Carte Class {special project classes discussed in advance with Liam}
Advanced students can take a Damascus class in order to make materials for advanced classes.
Classes are currently limited to 2 students per class. Please email info@blackguardcustoms.com for availability dates.
**Release of liability waiver required.