Commission Process
Designing Your Knife
A custom knife begins with decisions. Here is a guide to the key variables that shape every blade we make — each one yours to choose.
There are quite a few variables to consider when designing a custom knife. The choices you make affect everything from the blade's performance to its visual character. Below is a guide to the main elements to consider.
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Key Design Considerations
Purpose
What is the main purpose of the knife — will it be used, or primarily for display? A hard-working knife does not have to be ugly, but a display piece may require different materials and finishes. Purpose influences blade shape, thickness, and handle material choices.
Steel
Carbon steel is hard-wearing and retains a sharp edge, but is prone to rust. Stainless steel suits items subject to moisture. Hybrid steels offer great quality at a higher price point. Damascus steels are the ultimate in visual beauty but are at a premium.
Size
The knife must be big enough to do the job, but size is penalised by weight. A large, heavy knife may be difficult to carry and tiring to use. Handles must be sized to comfortably fit the user's hand throughout extended use.
Handles
Natural wood, bone, and horn are perennial favourites. A wide selection of premium synthetic materials is also available — more dimensionally stable and less prone to moisture fluctuations and temperature extremes.
Bolsters, Pommels & Guards
Bolsters protect handle end-grain and add beauty, but introduce four additional holes into the blade at high-stress points — so they are not recommended for extreme-use knives. For display and collector pieces, stainless steel, brass, copper, and giraffe bone bolsters are stunning options.
Pins
Pins prevent the handle from slipping on the blade and can be stainless steel, brass, or decorative mosaic. Mosaic pins — profiles set in a tube with epoxy resin — are particularly attractive. Number and placement depend on handle material and overall design.
Liners
Liners accentuate the handle and bind various elements into a cohesive unit. Materials include brass, aluminium, PVC, or vulcanised fibre — each lending a different character to the finished piece.
Blade Geometry
Blade shape — drop point, clip point, tanto, trailing point, and others — is chosen to balance purpose, aesthetics, and edge retention. Each profile suits different tasks and visual styles.
Ready to design your knife?
Every commission begins with a conversation. Reach out and we'll work through your vision together.
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