The Australian Knifemakers Guild aims to promote, preserve and develop the craft of knifemaking and all its various disciplines to the highest standard possible. Members regularly meet at knife shows to share ideas and inspiration on their latest creation.
Joining the guild is a great way to improve your skills and networks as a custom knifemaker. Probationary members must meet certain standards of fit and finish on their blades before being accepted as full members.
A sharp knife is much safer than a blunt one. It cuts cleanly and does not slip, causing few accidents. Yet most people don’t know how to sharpen a knife and keep it sharp. This evening course, run by Bladesmith Karim Haddad, shows you the secrets of getting and maintaining a fine edge. Five different methods will be demonstrated in setting an edge as well as burr removal honing and touching up. Knife care and storage will also be covered to ensure you knife stays sharp. This will be followed with a practical session where you get to sharpen the three knives that you have brought with you.
Cost is $75 for the evening – 7:30pm until 10:00pm.
There is a maximum of only six participants per class.
Location: Tharwa Valley Forge Contact: CIT Solutions 6207 4444
This course introduces the concept of forge welding cable to create patterns in the steel. This not only makes attractive blades, but also a very tough, flexible blade that keeps a great edge. This process is called "pattern welding" or sometimes "Damascus" after the city which made the process famous.
The finished blade is then etched in acid to bring out the patterns of the different parts of the cable - often with dramatic results.