knifemaking schools

[sharpstick]

Everything that I have learned about knifemaking up to this point has been either trial and error or advise from members of this forum. I am starting to feel more serious about knifemaking every passing day. It would be a dream to do something I enjoy so much full time.

What I would like to know is where are knifemaking classes taught? I have heard of week long classes that you can attend to learn basics or certain advanced skills. I was thinking about planning next years vacation around such a class, but I don't exactly know what is offered.

Can someone reccommend a good class?

 

[Chuck Gedraitis Knives]

Where are you from, that would help us suggest different schools? There is one here in Mass and the ABS school in Ar.
Chuck

 

[C L Wilkins]

I don't know where you live but there are events held in different parts of the country called "hammer ins". Some are organized, some are impromptu. A hammer in is where a bunch of smiths or folks interested in knifemaking gather and different accomplished makers will have break out sessions to demonstrate different aspects of knifemaking. Some is hands on.

Although these are more for the smithing camp of knifemaking, a lot can be learned by anyone that is interested in knifemaking. There are such things as fit and finish, guards, sheaths and just about every aspect of making a knife.

If you are interested in forging then the American Bladesmith Society offers courses in Washington, Arkansas on a routine basis. Their website has all the details.

This forum is a very good source of information. Some good books are out there as well. Take a look at some of the knife supply houses for them. The book by Barney and Loveless is good, along with the book by David Boye and don't forget "The Complete Bladesmith" by Hrisoulas.

Dan Gray has an excellent tutorial page on his site that will point in the right direction with different tutorials and "how to's". It can be found here.

I know that is more than you asked for but these are all good places to start.

Craig

 

[Mike Hull]

J.P.Moss gives very comprehensive schooling.
http://www.jp.moss.net/photos.html

 

[sharpstick]

Thanks Mike,

Come to find out, Mr. Moss is only a couple hours from where I live.

 

[Mike Hull]

Originally posted by sharpstick
Thanks Mike,

Come to find out, Mr. Moss is only a couple hours from where I live.

Y/W! IMO, JP is about as good as they get. His quality is right up there with the best, and he's an excellent teacher.

If you take his class, be ready to learn.