Want to start doing filework - but how?

[jaegar]

Hi,
I've seen a bunch of filework and I'm just gonna have to do some .
Problem is I don't know how. Is there a tutorial someone could point me to? I don't even know what tools I need .
Thanks for the help.
~Brian

 

[L6steel]

You can use files or a dremel with abrasive discs or sanding drums or even the edge of your contact wheel to add decoration to your blades. One gent I remember even uses routers with carbide cutters mounted in them. Best way to start is take a sharpee marker and draw a pattern on some steel and go to town with what ever tools you have and see how it comes out.
Bruce Evans has an excellent tutorial on the vine pattern and the arrow head pattern on his web site. Use the search feature here and in the shop talk archives and you'll find lots of links and tips and such.

 

[Ripper]

Brian,

Here are links to some tutorials:

http://www.homestead.com/beknivessite2/arrowfilework.html

http://www.homestead.com/beknivessite2/vinefilework.html

http://rocketknives.com/filework.htm

http://rocketknives.com/fileworkvine.htm

http://forum.ramanon.com/showthread.php?p=383719#post383719

You can also rent "Fileworking with Dwayne Dushane" on dvd
here.

Regards,
Greg

 

[ddavelarsen]

Check out Dan Gray's links for more tutorials too. I use a collection of needle files in various cuts, as well as diamond needle files. And of course, the Dremel. I got a "knife edged" buffing wheel from one of the suppliers that helps polish file work. You can also use Cratex of various shapes to polish filework.

 

[jaegar]

Thanks guys, that helps a lot
I was hoping you would have something greg!

Don't have the money now to get the files, but hoping I can pick some up at the Texas show. That's why I wanted to know. Is there some sort of basic kit you would reccomend? Just a set of needle files?
Thanks again,
~Brian

 

[McAhron]

Dwayne dushane offers a two and a half hour video or dvd on filework.You can buy it from his web site or centercross.

 

[Dan Pierson]

Don't have the money now to get the files, but hoping I can pick some up at the Texas show. That's why I wanted to know. Is there some sort of basic kit you would reccomend? Just a set of needle files?
Thanks again,
~Brian

You can get a lot done with just a 3-square (triangle) file and one or two small chain saw files. It helps to grind one side of the 3-square file smooth. Then add more files as needed.
I got most of my files for $2-3 each for good Swiss or American needle files from a local used tool place. They quickly replaced the junk Chinese set I started with. It's truely amazing how much better they were.

Dan Pierson

 

[jaegar]

well I've got plenty of chainsaw files, and 2 or so triangle ones, so I'll try that. Thanks.
~Brian