Hamons Styles

[SmackAttack]

Hi I'm Dave, a relatively new knife maker. I managed to get a hamon on one of my knives with satanite. The steel was 1080. I am wondering how you get those distinctive patterns. I've seen hamons that almost look like clouds. Does the type of steel make a difference or is it all in the application of the clay? Thanks!

 

[AcridSaint]

The steel and the clay will both make a difference. 1080 won't show some subtleties because it's a deep hardening 10xx series steel.

 

[SmackAttack]

I see. Will the hamon generally follow the design of the clay?