Filework WIP

[Bailey Knives]

I had a customer recently ask me to show how I do filework. I hesitated doing it because I dont want everyone to see how easy it is. Here is the process anyways. I usually spend some time drawing different kinds of filework. I just use a ruler and draw 2 lines 1/4" apart and use a sharp pencil to sketch in different pattern.

I start with my handy drilled ruler. I drilled out every centimeter so I can use it to mark the blade. Sorry about the fuzzy pic.

Then I extend the dots to make them lines.

OK so it is not completely filework. Purists will scoff at this, but I use a dremel to cut in the larger radius curves. A new sanding drum will last about 2 or 3 knives. I alternate the spacing skipping a "space" on one side then alternating it for the other side.

Here is the result.

Then I use a regular chainsaw file to cut in on opposite sides next to the dremel cuts. I repeat this on the opposite side, making the chainsaw file cuts nearly touch in the middle.

Here is the result of that

Then I use a triangular file to round off the sharp edges.

In order to see it best, I spray it with a little dykem, then hand sand the spine until the dykem is gone.
Here it is, total time about 10 minutes.

 

[Jason Fry]

Nice, Matt. Love the pattern.

 

[Frank Niro]

It's good work; done will a file or not !!! Frank

 

[PT Doc]

Thanks for the info. I will have to play with this at some point.

 

[Txknifefan]

The old chainsaw file is a versatile tool.

 

[wolffbite]

Great tip with the ruler! Thanks for the WIP! :thumbup:

 

[Mudbug007]

Another great WIP Matt! Thanks for taking the time to share!!!

 

[jonnymac44]

Very cool Matt. You always make things look very easy!

I like that pattern.:thumbup:

 

[Rick Marchand]

Very coolio, man. Sweet and tight!

 

[Blunt Forged Edge]

Nice work! I've been scouring the internet for the "how-to" on file working vine pattern on spine. Good seeing this thread here on BF!

 

[Nektarios]

very nice pattern i like it.

 

[dcmartin]

Looks great!

Thanks for posting.... Noobs like me are always wondering how these beautiful details are actually achieved.

 

[Bailey Knives]

Thanks everyone.
Blunt forged edge, An actual vine pattern would be done slightly differently. I will see if I can explain. All is done the same until the use of the chainsaw file. Then cut back from the front edge of the dremel radius on both sides. It would look the same as on the right hand side of the spine pictured, but the file cuts would angle backward the same way on the left side. I am not sure if that made any sense.

 

[TDPurcell]

Thanks Matt. Great information.

 

[james terrio]

Nice work. I used to have a rule like yours, but I didn't make it on purpose. I foolishly left it on top of a printing/converting press, and it fell onto the web and got pulled through the hole punch dies. I like your way better

 

[Bob Katilus]

sweet

 

[TDPurcell]

Nice work! I've been scouring the internet for the "how-to" on file working vine pattern on spine. Good seeing this thread here on BF!

The attached diagram shows how I learned to make a simple ivy pattern and the attached pic is my first try at it.

 

[amamachinist]

Very cool thanks for sharing!

 

[Blunt Forged Edge]

Thanks everyone.
Blunt forged edge, An actual vine pattern would be done slightly differently. I will see if I can explain. All is done the same until the use of the chainsaw file. Then cut back from the front edge of the dremel radius on both sides. It would look the same as on the right hand side of the spine pictured, but the file cuts would angle backward the same way on the left side. I am not sure if that made any sense.

It sure made sense to me and thank you for the explanation on the vine pattern.