Q. I have some “old iron” that has sentimental value to me, my family, are you able to use it to make me a knife?

A. If we can create something that uses a part of your past for something that helps you create and share food for the future, it’s something I’d love to do. Please send me some detailed photos and measurements of the length, width and depth. And any information about where the iron/steel came from, what it was used for – this could be helpful in knowing what it is, but it’s also just interesting to hear the story! The short answer is “yes”. In some way, it is definitely possible to use anything that is iron based. To the extent of how much this is possible will depend on many different variables.

Q. How are your knives made?

A. My process involves both the ancient method of hammering red hot steel (forging), and blends modern methods through various grinding tools (stock removal). A full heat treatment process is used including; annealing, normalising, hardening and tempering. They’re made by my hands only. For more details please visit the shop.

Q. What materials do you use?

A. I find my steel usually in the form of discarded vintage engineering files and horse shoe rasps, usually in all sorts of weird and wonderful places. I am particularly interested in vintage tool steel made in Sheffield, due to the connection with the industrial and manufacturing past. The wood that I use for handles is always sourced sustainably within the UK and usually reclaimed.

Q. How should I care for my knife?

A. Never put it in a dishwasher and always dry thoroughly after use. All knives are made from a high carbon steel which will react to their environment. Each knife arrives with a patina on the steel which helps protect it from rust and also slice better. Your knife should be kept dry and not left in acidic foods (such as lemons). See my useful tips for knife care here.

Q. Why is the knife blade a dark grey colour?

A. This is a natural, protective coating on the steel called a patina. I’ve added this to protect the blade, since it is not a stainless steel, it does react to it’s environment. Without this already in place, it can naturally build up over time and protect the steel, but this does require a lot of care and attention. I’ve done the hard work for you.

Q. Do you have any knives in stock?

A. Not exactly. You will see examples of various knives that I make in my shop – you can order any of these. They’re all made on commission basis – when you place an order and full payment is received, the work begins. One-off knives are occasionally made and are stocked, but are only released via email on a first come, first serve basis – sign up to know when they’re available.

Q. How long will it take for my order to arrive?

A. I estimate to complete and post the order 8-12 weeks after full payment, depending on how many are already on my production list – a timescale will be emailed to you directly. Please ask if a significant delivery date is important to you and I’ll do my best to meet this.

Q. Do you take custom orders?

A. As all my knives are made as one-of-a-kind pieces, I am able to adjust dimensions at designs to some degree. Please see the shop for more details. If you have something different in mind, feel free to reach out to me via email and I’ll see if I can help.