Never done before. Need Help!!!

[Eric W Withem]

I'm a complete noob. I have told my adult children that this year we have to make our Christmas presents that we are going to give to each other. I have decided to make 3 knifes for my 3 boys. I bought 3 pieces of 1095 steel 1 1/2" X 12" X 1/4" off of Amazon. I have cut and ground the metal to the shape I want. I have sanded the metal down to almost a polish. I have really enjoyed what I have done so far. Just don't know if its right.Thanks to all in advance for constructive responses.

Now my next step would be to:

1. Make the guard and handle? (Is a epoxy handle ok?)
2. Quench the blade? (whats the easiest for a new person to have success? oil, water, other?)

 

[Retired UPS Driver]

I'm a complete noob. I have told my adult children that this year we have to make our Christmas presents that we are going to give to each other. I have decided to make 3 knifes for my 3 boys. I bought 3 pieces of 1095 steel 1 1/2" X 12" X 1/4" off of Amazon. I have cut and ground the metal to the shape I want. I have sanded the metal down to almost a polish. I have really enjoyed what I have done so far. Just don't know if its right.Thanks to all in advance for constructive responses.

Now my next step would be to:

1. Make the guard and handle? (Is a epoxy handle ok?)
2. Quench the blade? (whats the easiest for a new person to have success? oil, water, other?)

Welcome to BF Eric. I bet you would get more responses at this link here. Sounds like a fun project you are undertaking, best of luck to you.
https://www.bladeforums.com/forums/maintenance-tinkering-embellishment.794/