Books/Websites/whatever... Looking for a good place for a beginner

[Ashes]

Simply put: I want to learn how to make knives. I recently ended my career as a commercial grinder (family business; family problems) but I am still very interested in knives. I was actually the most interested out of all of the people I used to work with, who didn't really know anything about knives other than commercial (kitchen/butchershop) knife sharpening. I worked in both the shop, sharpening, and in the store, ordering and selling knives, and I kind of got drawn in after doing my research and finding this site and talking with dealers and such...

Are there any good books or websites that will explain (in a way a non-professional can understand) about how to make knives? I have someone I am going to call (a retired knife-maker) who has already offered to teach me if I ever wanted, and who has also taught me to scrimshaw and even gave me materials to practice with. The trouble is finding the time to work with him, as I am in-between jobs right now. However, it's a thing that just won't go away; I want to make knives!!!

Are there any books or websites that are easy for someone like me to understand? I need pictures and samples... I'm very visually-oriented, and words tend to blur in my head if I can't see it being done. Any suggestions would be most appreciated.

~ashes

 

[Bruce Evans]

Ashes try this site,Dan has compiled up all the address's to how to make knives websites he could get ahold of.
http://www.knivesby.com/knifemaking.html

After that Wayne goddards book is a good place to start.Otherwise just keep reading hear on the forums and you will learn allot.

Good Luck on your new Journey into the world of Knifemaking,
bruce

 

[Anthony Chaney]

Ashes,

The fellow who answered you first gave you a very good link. Also, Bruce himself has a great website with lots of pictures. I will give you some links as well. The best advice that I can give you is to simply start. It really doesn't take a lot of materials to make your first one. A file, some sand paper and lot of elbow grease will go a long way. Start with something simple. Look at some of the pictures here and on other forums as well. Draw a simple sketch and go from there. Also, make time to spend with your knifemaker friend. I can tell you first hand that is the way to go. Here are some links. I wish you all the best.

http://www.knifenetwork.com/workshop/index.shtml

http://www.robbrownknives.com/tutorials/index.php

http://www.hossom.com/tutorial/jonesy/

http://p222.ezboard.com/fprimalfiresfrm12

http://www.knifeforums.com/forums/f...d10c89bf8a29bce7617f248640f3ae752db093308003/

Those should keep you busy for a bit.

 

[Ashes]

Thanks for the great links, Bruce and Anthony! I will definitely check them out.

I had already planned on calling Fritz Price (Fritzy, to those who know him), the man who offered to help me get started. He was always very nice to me and would bring in his newest knives to show me because I was the only one there who was truly enthusiastic about them. His attention to detail is amazing, and he is an incredible artist too. He even used to sell his paintings. He's also just a very interesting guy - a former police officer and veteran, among other things. I have a lot of respect for him and his talents (and his genuine kindness) and I'm sure I could learn a lot from him.

Thanks again for the info! I bet Fritzy could help me get materials too.

~ashes

 

[Dan Gray]

Ashes try this site,Dan has compiled up all the address's to how to make knives websites he could get ahold of.
http://www.knivesby.com/knifemaking.html

After that Wayne goddards book is a good place to start.Otherwise just keep reading hear on the forums and you will learn allot.

Good Luck on your new Journey into the world of Knifemaking,
bruce

Thanks Bruce

Ashes I need a helper in my shop

Bruce has some great stuff on his pages linked from My/all our knife making site too.
hands on from your friend I'm sure will help you a lot..
just watch out for his pointy things, don't get hurt..

 

[indian george]

Try to find a maker in your area to help you get started. If you lived closer you would be welcomed over here. I have help a few people on thier way. And will be starting with my son this week. Good Luck.

 

[Dan Gray]

Try to find a maker in your area to help you get started. Good Luck.

OK IG read this again

I had already planned on calling Fritz Price the man who offered to help me get started. He was always very nice to me and would bring in his newest knives to show me and I'm sure I could learn a lot from him.
~ashes

you been into the HT/R to early again

 

[Daniel Koster]

Ashes,

You're probably not too far away from J. and Tess Neilson (same state, anyway). Might be worth it just for the trip.

You might also consider talking to Audrey Draper, Kathleen Tomey, Ms. Warenski (can't seem to remember the others)...anyway, women in the knifemaking business. They might have some pointers.