Rosebud

elegant design, great detail in making

a art piece

congratulations on a job well done ,
and one hell off a gift
 
First I'd like to thank Lorien for the opportunity to make this knife. I knew this knife was not just a knife to be put among dozens of others, it represented something symbolic and dear to his heart. Thanks again Lorien, it was quite the ride:D

This was not a standard build for me. There were so many firsts in the construction that appealed to me. The challenges of knifemaking are what drive me, putting a snowflake in the steel was the biggest. The picture that Lorien showed of the end of a billet closely representing a four leaf clover was attempt #4 and the closest I'd got to my goal. While I was fixing/straightening some backhoe parts for my buddy Phil, a local machinist, he saw the clover pattern and offered his EDM machine to cut out the snowflake pattern. So Stewart, no the EDM is not mine, I wish it were. This is just the first in many hurdles I had to get over in this build. But the hurdles are what I love, I'm kinda sick that way.

For those of you that like the knife, thank you. I understand that it doesn't appeal to everyone, but that's OK. The only one that HAS to like it is Lorien. In my eyes he's the only one that matters, the customer.
 
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I think it's amazing. The textures and all the elements! What exactly were the over-all blade materials? And how did you get that texture???
 
I think it's amazing. The textures and all the elements! What exactly were the over-all blade materials? And how did you get that texture???

Thanks Scott, glad you like it. The snow flakes were cut from a solid bar of 15N20. It was forge welded with NO flux. The EDM would not like the slightest trace of flux. Then there is solid 1084 that surrounds the snowflake. These pieces after forging were put in a 4" piece of square tubing to form the box and filled with 1084 powder. The texture you see is the 1084 powder after etching. It required much more etching than I normally do just trying to raise the snowflakes so they could be polished without washing out the surrounding areas.
 
the more I handle and observe this knife, the more I come to appreciate the precision with which Mike approaches his work. I have been unable to find any flaw whatsoever with the fit and finish of this piece.

I also think it's super cool that this was Mike's first foray into mosaic damascus. I'm already starting to formulate plans to employ his newfound skillset in our next project!
 
I really like this piece which is surprising as it's not a style that usually draws my interest.
I'm a fan of well executed mosaic damascus and the contrast from the smooth surface and chatoyance of the MOP and matte rougher textured steel appeals to me.
Nice job all.
 
Very cool story and what a unique & personal gift for your wife! Having a wife who appreciates custom knives is a gift in itself.

Congrats Lorien and great job making this happen for them Mike :thumbup:
 
Congratulations to your bride, Lorien. Very outstanding overall. Mike sure knocked this one out of the park. Wow!!!

Chris
 
Wow this is quite the artistic venture. I love the elaborate yet subdued elements to it. congratulations to Lorien and thanks for sharing such a wonderful knife. Mr. Mike this is truly a testament to exceptional skill, very well done sir.
 
I wish, Jon. Fact is, this knife broke the bank and then some, (although it was very reasonable price-wise all things considered).
But don't worry, it won't go bad. We'll get a good photo one of these days. It's the least I can do for Mike.
 
Sounds good Lorien!

I miss the world of photography. I have not had a decent set up in some time.
 
took a couple of 'in the hand' pictures;

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fits about perfect :)
 
The snowflakes and overall texturing really sets this one apart.
Very cool work, Mike.
Congrats to you and your family, Lorien.

Doug
 
Terrific project and a really beautiful knife. Love the mosaic damascus and the way the texture is set off by the smooth pearl. Hats off to both of you!
 
Will you be getting professional pics taken Lorien? Sure hope so cause this beauty deserves it. Great work Mike. :thumbup:
 
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