Knifemaking classes, shows, hammer-ins

Mark Williams

Mark Williams

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Use this thread for any classes , shows and hammer-ins. This is NOT to be used for any other classes other than making. No "how to use" classes.
 
2006 NCCKG Knifemaking Classes

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Each year the North Carolina Custom Knifemakers Guild offers classes dealing with various aspects of knifemaking. The NCCKG does this in conjunction with Montgomery Community College in Troy, NC.

The classes are taught by some of the most recognized knifemakers in the US. If you can't learn something from these guys then there is something wrong with you. Even if you are a veteran knifemaker you can learn something from them.

I highly recommend that anyone interested in making knives should sign up and take the classes offered. You don't have to have ANY prior knifemaking experience to take these classes.


This link takes you to a registration form for signing up to take the classes.
http://www.ncknifeguild.org/register.htm


Here is the list of classes for 2006. Anyone interested in taking one, or more, of the classes should contact Phillip and I. Our email address is jknives@gamewood.net



Custom Folding Knives
Instructor: Ed Van Hoy
Date: May 4-7
Cost: $315
Description: Design and craft a custom liner-lock folding knife. The class will show the basic principles and methods of construction required to make a folding knife. It will cover design, machine work, drilling, tapping grinding the blade and finishing. Each student will complete one knife using both machine shop and common hand tools.
A hands on course.


Knife Grinding
Instructor: Ed Halligan
Date: June 23-25
Cost: $240
Description: Students will learn fixed blade design using the basic principles and methods of knife construction. This includes learning hollow grinding, flat grinding, heat treating a knife blade, how to make guards and finishing a handle. A hands on course


Making Damascus Steel
Instructor: Steve Shwarzer
Date: July 13-16
Cost: $315
Description: American Bladesmith Society Master Smith Steve Shwarzer will teach students the fundamentals of pattern welded Damascus steel making. Topics will include steel selection, pattern manipulation, forging and finishing a bar of Damascus steel.
A hands on course.


Metal Engraving
Instructor: Jesse Houser
Date: August 4-13
Cost: $110
Description: Students will be guided through the fundamentals of hand engraving on metal. Learn terminology, tools of the trade, cutting tool design, metal finishing, cutting in steel and soft metal, background treatment, design factors and development and engraving pattern transfer. Power engraving tools and some advanced techniques will be discussed and demonstrated. A hands on course.


Basic Knife Making
Instructor: Tommy McNabb
Date: August 10-13
Cost: $315
Description: Students will learn knife making by designing and making a knife themselves under the guidance of the instructor. Each student will grind, heat treat and finish a knife using the stock removal method. This class is for beginners to intermediates who want to perfect their knife making skills.


Forged Tomahawks
Instructor: Wayne Whitley
Date: October 6-8
Cost: $240
Description: Forge and finish an Early American tomahawk. Students will learn forging, grinding, heat treating and finishing the blade and handle. A hands on course.
 
Track Hammer-in

The date for the Trackrock Spring Hammer-in is set for the weekend of March 25th. The event is held at the beautiful Trackrock Campgrounds and stables. Bring the family and get to meet and interact with other knife makers and the living legend of sheathmakers Martin "Sandy" Morrissey.

It is held in the town of Blairsville Georgia. You can stay at the campground or at several hotels in town.

the campgrounds website is www.trackrock.com

Good food , fun and forging.
 
TEXARKANA COLLEGE/BILL MORAN
SCHOOL OF BLADESMITHING
2006 SCHEDULE OF CLASSES
DATE CLASS INSTRUCTOR COST
Spring 2006
Feb 13-24 Introduction to Bladesmithing D. Robinson & Roger Massey $700
Feb 27- Mar 03 Damascus John Fitch $600
Mar 27- April 07 Introduction to Bladesmithing Harvey Dearn & Joe Flournoy $700
April 10- April 14 Damascus Mike Williams $600
April April 17-21 Handles & Guards J.R. Cook $600
May 06-07 Spring Hammer-in Neely, Fisk & Williams $120
May 08-19 Introduction to Bladesmithing Greg Neely & Bert Gaston $700

Summer 2006
June 26-July 07 Introduction to Bladesmithing Kevin & Heather Harvey $700
July 10-14 Damascus Tim Foster $600
July 17-28 Introduction to Bladesmithing Bruce Fuller & Jim Crowell $700
July 31-Aug 04 Handles & Guards Jim Walker $600

Fall 2006
Oct 02-13 Introduction to Bladesmithing J.R. Cook & Michael Connor $700
Oct 16-20 Damascus Steve Dunn $600
Oct 23-27 Handles & Guards David Anders $600
Oct 28-29 Fall Hammer-in Neely, Fisk & Williams $120
 
NECKA will be having one in April mid to the end. Must confirm dates with other officers and BOD.:thumbup: We are looking for another place to have it to accommodate more people. It may not be this one, but one in the future.
This one looks like it will be held here at my shop in the famous New Bedford, MA.:D
 
NECKA HI will be either 4/22 or 4/29. Need input from the members what will work for them. Majority rule.:D
 
We have set the date for our annual Hammer In to be held at my shop in Cairo, MO for
April 8th & 9th Anyone wanting more information can contact me at 660-263-8949 or ----
duncanknives@mcmsys.com
This will be like the others that we have had here in the past years as it is a hands on type of gathering. If you desire to learn how to make Damascus or forge blades or just want to set around and talk knives then you should have a good time at this Hammer-IN Along with myself, Corbin Newcomb & Chris Owens will also be helping put this one on. I'm also planning on doing my MS cutting test this year and I'm hoping Bill Buxton and Jim Rice will be taking there JS cutting test at this years Hammer-IN to if they don't chicken out first.
Hey this one cost nothing except ever one is asked to donate a gift to the Iron in the hat drawing that helps offset the cost of putting it on a little. Bring a sandwich or you can drive to one of the many fast food places within three miles of my place on the Missouri prairie. Ron Duncan
 
More info:http://www.forgeandfire.com/bd_overview.htm
Bladesmithing Master Courses 2006​
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March​
Advanced Damascus Patterns — Hank Knickmeyer
March 11th - 14th
In this class Hank will teach and illustrate the various techniques to turn one or more repeatable Damascus patterns into a complete new pattern. More on Advanced Damascus...
Tomahawks — Joe Szilaski​
March 20th - 24th ​
There are not too many artisans in the knife world that can teach tomahawk making as Joe can. Known for his beautiful carving details and extremely skilled forging techniques, Joe will truly elevate your skill level in making the "The Tomahawk". More on the Tomahawk class...​
April​
Carving and Embellishments — David Broadwell

April 3rd - 7th
David is not only an extremely talented knife maker but is also a well know custom pen maker. He has gained a reputation over the years for his blade and pen barrel carvings. More on Carving and Embellishments...
The Bowie Knife, From Beginning to End — Jim Rodebaugh
April 17th - 21st
Jim has been making knives for over fifteen years. Though he makes a variety of knives—from folders to fillet knives—he will tell you his favorite is the Bowie knife. Jim has built a reputation over the last few years for his beautiful and precisely made Bowie knives. If you have always wanted to build the "Big" knives but didn't quite know how to go about it, now's your chance. Not only does Jim have great forging skills (those techniques will be covered in this class), but his understanding of how to build a knife from the tip to the butt cap will only enhance your overall abilities as a knifemaker. More on the Bowie Knife...
Picture Damascus — Shane Taylor
April 24th - 28th
Shane may not be one of the original creators of picture Damascus, but he has truly become one of the masters of it . All you have to do is mention Bats, Dragons, or Goblins and images of Shane's Damascus come to the mind's eye. He has truly mastered the art of picture Damascus. If, like so many others, you have had ideas about picture designs you would like to incorporate into your Damascus, but really don't have a clue how to do it... this is the class! You will leave this class with a complete understanding of how and what to do to make your own original picture Damascus. More on picture Damascus...
May
Mosaic Pattern Damascus — Rick Dunkerley
May1 - 5th
Rick has been making knives well over twenty years, he is an ABS master smith, and is widely recognized for his mosaic Damascus pattern development. If you want to take your Damascus to the next level, this is the class. Rick will lead you through pattern design, billet layout and development to create the stunning mosaic patterns which are Rick’s hallmark. More on mosaic Damascus... ​
Slip Joint Folders — Richard Rogers
May 8th - 12th
Probably regarded as one of the five best slip joint makers in the United States, Richard has won numerous awards for his craftsmanship and immaculate fit and finish. Richard’s sense of precision and attention to the tiniest detail is visible in all his knives. The knowledge gained in this class will enhance not only your folder making skills, but can be applied equally as well to all aspects of knifemaking. Each student to leave with a completed knife. More on slip joint folders... ​
Blade, Bolster and Handle Embellishments — Barry Gallagher
May 22nd - 25th
Have you ever wondered why one knifemakers creations stand out more than others? Usually it's not the type of knife he has made, but rather what he has done with the blade, bolster, and handle—how they all come together to form a new statement. This is how a knife becomes a piece of art. Barry started making his statement in the mid 90's when he first came out with his "Bug Knives". Perhaps his most famous one was his dragonfly knife. You just could not look at it as a knife— it was clearly a piece of art. If you have been thinking lately that your knives could use a facelift, this is the class you want to take. Not only will Barry teach you his techniques and the tools he uses to create his art, he will also explain how and why a design will work for the knife you want to make. This class will open new doors for you into your creativity, and you will leave with a whole new approach to knifemaking. More on this class...
June​
Guest Instructor — Ed Caffrey
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June 22nd - 25th
Class description coming soon! More on Ed Caffrey's class... ​
Advanced Damascus Development and Theory:​
A Study of Distortion, Manipulation and Progression — Tom Ferry
June 26th - 30th
Class description coming soon! More on Tom Ferry's class... ​

July​
Guest Instructor — J.W. Randall
July 10th - 14th
Class description coming soon! More on J.W. Randall's Class...​
August​
Guest Instructor — Kirk Rexroat
August 21st - 25th​
Class description coming soon! More on Kirk Rexroat's Class...
September​
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Fluted and Wire Wrapped Handles — Tim Hancock
Sept 18th - 22nd
Tim has been making knives for about twenty years, and has probably won more awards for his knives than any other maker alive today. He brings precision, an understanding how the components of a knife really go together, what makes the design of a knife really flow, a sense of clean style. Tim has an indefinable quality and integrity that he manages to invest in his work and his students. Along with Mike Vagnino, Tim has been indispensable in developing the core content and curriculum of the school of bladesmithing at Sierra Forge & Fire. This course will cover three different styles of guard applications and handles, and you will leave with a better understanding of handle and guard construction, and the aesthetic choices involved in their application. More on this class... ​
Basic Damascus "The Foundations" — Josh Smith​
Sept. 25th - 29th
If you have ever wondered about making Damascus... What kind of steel do I use? What kind of flux? How hot do I have to get the steel before I try to weld it? How do I weld It? By hand, with a press, or a power hammer? What are the advantages and disadvantages of those different methods? These might seem very basic and simple questions, but we have all had them at one time or another. All those topics and many more will be covered and explained in this class. Sierra Forge & Fire has asked Josh to return and teach this class for a few reasons: first, his total understanding of the Damascus making process; secondly, (and just as important) his unique ability to teach you that information in a way that will allow you to go back to your shop and begin to make Damascus just like those who have been making it for years. Josh will demonstrate and walk you through the process from beginning to end. You will leave this class with a complete and total understanding of basic Damascus, and how to make it. More on the Foundations of Damascus..
October​
The Automatic Knife — Darrel Ralph ​
October 12th - 15th
Darrel is probably as well known for his auto mechanisms as for his knife designs. He holds many patents for both. In this class he will teach you how to properly design a knife that uses an auto mechanism. The techniques and procedures he will teach are designed for the beginning as well as the advanced knifemaker. If you have ever wanted to learn how to make an auto, THIS IS THE CLASS!!! More on this class...
The Two Blade Slip Joint— Bill Ruple
October 23rd - 27th
Class Description coming soon! More on this class...
Gadgets, Gillhookies and Forging — Audra and Mike Draper
October 28th - November 3rd
Ever wonder how to make an inter-frame handle with a pearl inlay... without a pantograph?! Ever wanted to make curved bolsters for your folders but couldn't figure out how to match the handle material to them? Learn the answer to these and many more questions in this unique class offering. If there is a tool, jig, mill, or vise attachment that will aid you in your knife making, Mike will show you how to make it and how to use it. Do you save the small end cuts off your Damascus billets? Not sure what you're going to do with them, you just know you should be saving them... well, as an added bonus to this class, Audra (the very first women ABS Master Smith), is going to show you how to turn those scraps into found gold—money, that is. This class is going to be a big assist to the student who is just starting to set up their own shop. You will be overwhelmed and amazed at the amount of information in your possession at the end of this class. More on this class...
November
Metal Carving and Handle Design — Robert Weinstock
November 4th - 7th
Class description coming soon! More on Metal Carving and Handle Design...
Powder Mosaic Damascus — Ron Newton
November 13th - 17th
Ron has been a maker for close to twenty years and is an ABS won numerous awards not only for his knifemaking ability but for new design concepts and his ability to re-imagine historical reproductions. More on Powdered Damascus... ​
The "D" Guard Bowie Knife — Harvey Dean
November 27th - December 1st Class Description Coming Soon! More on the "D" Guard Bowie...
December
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Locking Liner Folders — Mike Vagnino
December 4th - 8th
Mike has been a maker for more than ten years, has won several awards over the years for his locking liner knives for creative design. He is an ABS Master Smith. Mike has a background in teaching and art, and has been driving force behind the organization of the bladesmithing program at Sierra Forge & Fire. From design and layout to finishing touches, you will walk away with a more complete understanding of how to build one of the most popular knives out there. The goal is for each student to leave with a completed knife. More on Locking Liner Folders...​
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559.592.2080 • Fax 559.592.2414 • 130 E. Maple Street • Exeter, CA 93221 • E-mail Us: Click Here
 
indian george said:
NECKA will be having one in April mid to the end. Must confirm dates with other officers and BOD.:thumbup: We are looking for another place to have it to accommodate more people. It may not be this one, but one in the future.
This one looks like it will be held here at my shop in the famous New Bedford, MA.:D
Click to expand...
the date is confirmed Aprill 22 2006 at IG's see www.necka.net for info
 
Got a note from Carl the other day. I have a lot going on personally taking care of my mom and am not sure if I can come, but I hope there is a great turnout. I know that anyone who goes there will have a great time and get to talk with some fantastic people. Getting to talk with Carl, Mark (if he is able to come) Sandy and some of the folks who participate here is worth the trip alone. Sandy and Karla's leatherwork is also very much worth the trip.

Gus
From Carl's note:
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Directions to the campground can be downloaded from www.trackrock.com
The date is the weekend of March 25th. I'll be there on Thursday afternoon early to start setting up and getting some visiting done with my buds, Sandy and Frank. Anyone that wants to come up early, come on. I'll be staying in one of the cabins on the campgrounds. Check with the office and look me up. If I have left the grounds, I will leave a note on the message board at the office.

If you wish to eat lunch with us, I need to know now so Anthony, the "Royal High Cook Extrodinare", can be prepared. He does this at "cost", so there will be a nominal charge for Saturday's lunch. Just let me know asap.

You guys that have never been to a Trackrock event are really missing out. This is not your ordinary "pay to come" hammer-in. We don't charge anything to attend or participate because we don't feel it's necessary. It's a family atmosphere so expect kids and wives to be around. We have a lot of fun, learn from each other, and share what we know freely.

Come learn, watch, visit and make friends with some very gifted artisians. There will be forged knives, hawks, etc. and leather goods on display. You'll have the opportunity to meet the living legend, "Master of Moo", Sandy Morrissey. Hopefully, he will talk his comrade in leather, Karla Van Horne to come. She is another master leather craftsman and has won several prestegious awards for her amazing leather carving.
 
Better put this where it belongs :o before I get banned :D .
 
Hi Folks,Bob Rossdeutscher and I are planning another event for July 15.Last years turned out really well,and we just threw it together.So we are trying to get a bit of planning in on this one.It's a rather informal gathering in a nice park on the Fox River.Last year we did forging,sheath making,scrimshaw,filework,glass beads,and more.I'll be roasting another pig(or possibly 2) so there should be plenty to eat.If folks are interested camping will be available in the park for the weekend(no electric or water hookups),and there are hotel/motels nearby.If anyone is interested feel free to contact either Bob or myself.Heres a few pics from last year:

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The scrimshaw work:
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And my contribution

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Thanks
Rob Lindquist
 
Oh yeah,
It's not strictly a Hammer-in(as in just forging).Any aspect of knife making,collecting,or curiosity would be welcome to do a demo,or just to join in for a good time.We'll keep you posted as to what type of things are to happen as folks contact us and tell us what they have in mind.
Thanks again
Rob
 
Rob,

I'll let Karl and Jerry know. We had a great time last year. Looking forward to doing it again.

Brent
 
Hi folks
Just wanted to add that this event is still taking place on july 15.If using mapquest use this address:
906 Porten Rd. McHenry Il 60051
If that doesn't work for you drop me an email and I'll get you there.
I did get an Email from Art B. My reply email was returned so I hope you see this.
Right now Mark Nevling is doing a demo on linerlock folders,Jerry Rados is doing a demo on slipjoints and lockbacks.Bob Rossdeutscher will be doing a demo,though he hasn't decided yet as to what area.I'm sure there will be a few more folks jumping in,I just haven't gotten anything concrete from them yet.
If you have any questions,or would like to do some type of demo please feel free to contact me or Bob.
Thanks
Rob Lindquist

also,I will be out in the park all night Friday cooking the pig,so don't feel like you have to limit yourself to Saturday...Sunday is also an option for more good times if folks would like to hang around.

One more thing...Saturday night is karaoke night at the tavern...so be sure to keep those voices in good shape!
 
I would like everyone to attend the first ABS hammer in in Montana. Below I have posted all of the information about it. I would love for everyone to attend. Contact me with any questions at 406-626-5775 or e-mail me at josh@joshsmithknives.com

You are invited to attend the

1st Big Sky Country Hammer In and Knife Show

September 30-October 1 2006

Hosted by Josh and Jodi Smith
in conjunction with the
American Bladesmith Society, Inc.

Demonstrators: Hank Knickmeyer, of St. Louis Missouri, will be focusing on the process of forging damascus steel including basic layout, design, and complex mosaics. Hank will also teach how he forge welds edge wraps on damascus billets to create fine composite damascus blades.

Tim Hancock, of Scottsdale Arizona, will demonstrate blade grinding techniques, guard and handle fitting, hand finishing techniques, and a sheath tip and throat seminar. Tim is an expert in creating repeatable accurate techniques to produce outstanding fit and finishes.

Schedule: Saturday September 30th:
8-12 a.m. Damascus forging and knife making demonstrations.
12-1 p.m. Catered lunch
1-5 p.m. Damascus forging and knife making demonstrations.
3-5 p.m. Knife show open to public. Tables will be set up in a tent. The public is welcome to watch demos during the two hour time slot.
6:00 p.m. Dinner at King Ranch Golf Course

Sunday October 1st
8-12 a.m. Sheath tip and throat demo and knife making demos.

A forge and anvil will be set up to allow beginners to hand forge a blade under the instruction of an experienced maker.
Lunch: On Saturday, a catered lunch will be served at the hammer in. It will include a chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes, gravy, vegetable, and dessert.

Dinner: Dinner will be held at King Ranch Golf Course in Frenchtown. Dinner will offer a choice of prime rib, shrimp, or chicken including side dishes and dessert. Lunch and dinner are included in the price of the hammer in.

Show: Saturday a show will be held in which the public is invited to attend. Please bring some of your work to show. A local newspaper is covering the event.

Numerous master smiths will be in attendance
Registered tail gate sales are welcome
Table Fee included in registration fee
Lunch and dinner included in fee
September can be cool in Montana so bring clothes to dress accordingly. Bring proper safety supplies including leather gloves,safety glasses, and ear plugs.

Location: Josh and Jodi Smith residence
19495 Serenity Way
Frechtown, Montana 59834

Phone: (406) 626- 5775- For any questions or concerns please contact Josh Smith at this number.

Web Site:www.joshsmithknives.com
E-mail: josh@joshsmithknives.com

Directions: Frenchtown is located 15 miles west of Missoula along interstate 90. On Interstate 90 take the Frechtown exit. Turn south toward town and come to stop sign in center of town. Take right on Beckwith. Follow Beckwith about 1 mile to stop sign at Mullan rd. Take right on Mullan, go one mile and take left on Erskine Fishing Access. Go ½ mile and turn left on Serenity Way. Follow to the end of the road.

Accommodations: Make reservations immediately. Limited rooms available due to a college football game.

Wingate Inn- 866-832-8000 www.wingateinnmissoula.com special rate of: 92.65 ask for ABS hammer inn special- shuttle to hammer inn available each morning and evening

C’mon Inn- 888-989-5569 Ask for special hammer in rates: 99.99 2 queens, 94.99 1 queen

Comfort Inn-406-542-0888 Ask for American Bladesmith Society, Reserve Street
Holiday Inn Express- 406-549-7600 99+tax Reserve Street
Hilton Garden Inn Missoula- 406-532-5300 Reserve Street
Microtel Inn and Suites- 543-0959 Reserve Street
Courtyard by Marriot- 406-549-5260 Reserve Street
Best Western Grant Creek- 543-0700 Reserve Street
Days Inn Missoula-406-721-9776 Reserve Street
Motel 6- 406-549-6665 Reserve Street
Super 8 Motel- 406-549-1199 Reserve Street
Campers and tents are welcome at the hammer in site. No hook ups or showers are available.

Air Travel: Missoula International Airport is 15 minutes from Frenchtown.
Spokane International Airport is 2 ½ hrs from Frenchtown.

Attractions: Glacier National Park- 3hr. drive
Yellowstone National Park- 3 hr. drive
The Clark Fork River is a 10 minute walk from the hammer in that provides excellent trout fishing.
There are seven golf courses with in 30 minutes of the hammer in location.

Fee: Please get your $135 fee in early.
 
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