Noob Handle Question

[kastles]

How do you go about finding the right shape for a handle? Pre-make it out of wood? or pay-doh? I got knife number one started tonight, with the blade half cut out but not sure what to do about the handle. Any advise would be great. Thanks

kastles

 

[ddavelarsen]

A lot of folks will grab a handful of modeling clay and work it till it's comfortable in their hand and use that for a guide. Personally, I looked at thousands of pictures and then started making handles like I did blades: removing everything that wasn't the handle. You can make handles as simple as you want - just grind or file to the edge of the tang and round off the sides of the scales, and you're ready to go. Be sure to finish the ends of the scales before you attach them to the knife. Good luck and have fun!

 

[Tinbasher]

Cardboard cut outs