New to knife making

[johnwist]

Hi,
I am new to knife making, I always like to collect them but now I want to make my own. I am buying pre-made blades at the moment, and am trying to learn how to make and shape the handles. I am discovering that it is not as easy as I thought. Is there anyone in the Phoenix/Glendale Arizona area that can help show me how to do this correctly. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Area there any knife making clubs in the Phoenix area that I could join.
Thank you very much.
John

 

[A C Richards]

The on person that comes to my mind happens to be my first mentor in knifemaking. Great guy and wonderful smith. He lives in Tucson. If you want to learn how to do things with minimal tools give him a shout. his name is Tai Goo. Can't ask for a more talented maker/teacher. By the way he can be found on the forums or at http://www.taigooknives.com/

 

[Frank Niro]

Did you read the introductory threads and especially on how to make a knife by Stacy ? Frank

 

[Patrickknives]

You might discuss what trouble you are having. Shaping a handle is not tough if you take your time. Draw your design onto the wood block and use a bandsaw or handsaw to remove excess leaving a little bit extra. Use a wood rasp to finish the shape and then sand paper to remove the marks from the rasp. Work slowly and check often to make sure you dont remove anything that looks like a handle.