old newbie

[dmarx]

Howdy folks,

I was making knives back in the early 80's and had to quit for various reasons. Now I've got the itch to get back into it. I picked up the first knife publication I've looked at in about 25 years and was literaly blown away. It's incredible how far the craft/art has progressed! (Can't wait to get my fingers burned again.) I'll have my Cootes on order by the end of the week and I'll be having mucho questions in this forum, no doubt. Back then there wasn't anywhere near this much info available, although in 1974 American Blade came out with a series of knifemaking articles in the first few issues. (would you believe I still have the first 4 or 5 complete volumes?) Anyways, thanks for the great info on this board.

Dave Marx

 

[Marcel J.B. Morin]

Hi. Welcome back to the world of burnt fingers, cuts and abrasions and just plain fun. I also had given it up for years and a few years ago came back to it. Didn't realize how much I missed it until I started grinding again. It's a wonderful way to spend your spare time. There is a great bunch of people on this forum. They will make you feel welcome and have you back on track in no time.

Marcel

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

Dave, welcome back. This is a great place for old and new makers. The books available are much better than 25 years ago,too. You might enjoy "The Complete Bladesmith",by Jim Hrisoulas.There are several other "must have" books that are the source of information and learning for many makers.Another good source is www.knifehow.com .Lots of tutorials and info available there.
Stacy

 

[dmarx]

Thanks for the welcome guys. I'd love to try smithing, but I live in the burb's. My neighbors wouldn't appreciate it.

Dave

 

[deker]

Thanks for the welcome guys. I'd love to try smithing, but I live in the burb's. My neighbors wouldn't appreciate it.

Dave

Welcome back Dave! (I say that as if I was here when you left...I'm just a newb myself )

Just because you're in the 'burbs doesn't mean you can bang on hot steel. Check out the ABANA website and see if there is a member guild in your area. If you can find blacksmiths around you you're likely to find a shop you can work in, and some good folks to boot.

See you 'round the grinder!

-d