One additional thing I'd like to mention is Dave's approach to working with a client. He is very professorial. Instead of just saying this is how I'm going to do it, he seems to enjoy the process of teaching. For example, with the ivory he carefully explained to me why each piece would not work, what he needed to do with it to make it fit and balance also capture the beauty. Contrary to my earlier post, he didn't just say "too small." He taught me what I wanted to look for, how the core effected what he could do with it, and how much material he needed on top, bottom and both ends for the project. He also sent me examples of blade styles, Damascus patterns, and not only shared his opinion but asked mine. We talked about butt caps and balance. The WIP he posted here is a good example of Dave's willingness to share his knowledge. Overall it was an excellent and rewarding experience, the end result of which was a beautiful knife. I learned through the process.
