The First of May - Five Years Full Time

[Fiddleback]

Hello everyone, just a note to say that on May 1 2009, I got laid off of my job. This turned out to be a blessing, though it was hard to see it that way at the time. In response, I went down into my basement and started making knives full time. One month later I did my first Blade Show. Soon after that, Dylan showed up. I really like when Bob Loveless said that knifemaking was one of the oldest honorable professions, and possibly the first specialized human job. I like finishing the knives and knowing it is honorable work. I've grown a lot as a craftsman and a businessman since then. My knives have come a long way, but they still have a long way to go and I still strive for it. The business has grown a lot as well. We're almost done with our first lease here in Cumming and we're getting cramped in here. This is because Fiddleback Forge, Inc created 6 jobs (including my own) and the place is full of craftsmen. I am very proud of this team. I am proud to be a knifemaker, and proud to make knives for you. I love doing it too.

Thank You.

 

[Tribial]

I am proud of you guys too! And happy to play a small part. i just recently went through the Friday threads I have been around for and the evolution is palpable! It has been a pleasure and I am sure it will continue to be! Congratulations and best of luck!

 

[VANCE]

congrats to the whole crew

 

[raschalt2000]

I think you guys "make a better mouse trap" so you will keep growing. Keep up the good work.

 

[prom52]

Andy:

Looks like that old saying "when one door closes another will open" became a positive new reality for you. Congratulations on having the courage to follow your dream & on celebrating your 5th anniversary. Believe me, we can feel the impact of what you & your team have accomplished in the handle of every knife you produce !

Best wishes for your continued success.

Peter

 

[Joe Duder]

Congrats Andy and team. I'm excited to see your success grow and your knives along with it.

 

[hiredgun]

Congratulations Andy. I'm happy to be a small (very small) part of your success and I hope to continue to do business with you. Best of luck this year.

 

[esdunbar]

Very impressive. Congratulations and my best wishes for continued success.

 

[xxwjtxx]

Congratulation Andy & Co. -- a great look back on how far you have come!

 

[catalystman80]

Congrats Andy and all employees/apprentices past & present! This is a great success story, and wish you a continued growth!

 

[KP]

Congratulations fellas.

 

[ISP 5353]

Congrats to you and the crew!

 

[thurin]

Congrats Andy and Fiddleback Forge! Here's to many more years.

 

[kevroo]

Congratulations!

Kevroo checking in just to wish you guys many, MANY more years.

 

[emoney2277]

Congrats Andy and crew! You've got something special, you should be very proud.

 

[Kirkwood]

Big congrats Andy and Fiddleback Forge Team! This is a great milestone.

 

[bonafide]

We're almost done with our first lease here in Cumming and we're getting cramped in here.

Lots of warehouse spaces along the I-75 corridor of Cobb, Bartow, and Gordon counties. lol.

Congrats of the Anniversary!! Heck of a an accomplishment for sure. I wish yall continued success!

 

[Esav Benyamin]

Congratulations, Andy! Fiddleback Forge is one the bright spots on Bladeforums!
You and your crew have done an amazing job in these few short years.

 

[crewbot]

Congratulations Andy and all. It won't seem like it while you are doing it, but having to move again after just two years, is a good thing in your case. I'm very happy for you and your family to be enjoying such success. You've earned it!

 

[Mistwalker]

Congratulations Andy!! That is a definite mile stone, and there have been a few of those over the last five years. I have really enjoyed watching you and your skill grow to where it is now, and sit in awe every time I hold a new one seeing where you are now, and knowing that you are still growing in your craft. I am glad to see how your business has grown. I knew when I met you and handled your knives, that the knife world needed what you would bring to it.

I know very well how you must have felt back in May of 2009. In 2008 I went through a series of lay offs and call backs...with the last one being December 13 2008. It was a rough period for me too, and I was unsure what to do, but soon I had sold my first knife design, and gotten my firs shot at writing professionally. Both were long time dreams I had never been brave enough to chase until being put into a position where I had few other options. Watching how you pushed yourself and grew over the years served as an inspiration for me to push myself. It is funny how what we initially see as some of the worst things imaginable, can turn out to be the best thing to ever happen to us.

It's a bit early yet for me... but it is after 1 pm, so I pop a top on a cold one, and raise a glass to you, Fiddleback Forge, and to following dreams and passions. Cheers!