Dang, Steve- couldn't stick with little questions eh?
I'll do my best here;
As a collector of handmade knives, I've gained the following insights from the experience of making a knife;
-for me, a more pragmatic approach to knives when it comes to what I am looking for and from those who make them. My tastes are quite specific, and I know what I like when I see it, but try not to pigeon hole those likes too specifically beforehand.
-I'm coming to anticipate growth in my knife world view, and try to steer clear from absolutes and keep an open mind.
-how much a fine hand applied finish can and should increase the value of a knife
-knife making is an inherently and potentially insidiously dangerous profession. The glues and compounds, leather and wood dust in the lungs, not to mention the occasional laceration make for a tough career without benefits, therefore;
-if a knife maker is offering a knife that I want to have, I will not dicker with him on the price. I've seen a few over priced knives out there, but not many. In fact, to me the only consistently overpriced knives I've seen are that way because they are collectibles, or investments. But then they're almost not really knives anymore, but that's a whole other discussion
.
As a guy who made a knife, I've gained other insights which include;
-the community of people in this business/hobby whatever, are generous with their experience, wisdom and advice. I have been given hours of time, free and unsolicited by many members of the custom knife community, some of them at the top tier in their profession. Not to mention such gifts as books, materials, tools and services.
-ongoing gratitude for the willingness of this community to foster encouragement for knife makers, and the sincerity of the willingness. So very little bullying and so much sharing. It's a unique community and so diverse.
-the internet is an incredible tool for learning
-procedure is KEY
-I work better when I am patient with my self and my ideas. I enjoy the process of making a knife, and because that is what I like, I don't mind prolonging the process. Speed and competence will increase for me, but over a long span of time, I figure
-I doubt I will ever make any money making knives
-a unique and strong personality/character is very important in walking the path of knife maker, but so is sensitivity. It's a unique craft which attracts unique people
-it's good to make a plan. It is equally good to wing it. It's all about timing, and not pushing rope
That wasn't too hard. In fact, I can think of many other insights I've had over the past year between when I started this knife and now. There will be many more. In fact, isn't that the point?
