What, Exactly, Would You Consider A One-Off?

[redsquid2]

Example: I make a knife, and I find it to be particularly useful, so I make a few more. I use the exact same pattern, but maybe I add jimping, use different handle materials, or change the bevel. Do I now have a "series"? I think I would consider them all part of a "series," rather than a collection of "one-offs." Since I'm a newbie at this, I would love to hear everyone else's perspective.

Thanks.

Andy/squid

 

[jwblack911]

to me a 1 off is "one and done" alot of times your right though. alot of makers make a one off and after requests for more add a few things and keep selling that model just slightly different

i do know however off the top of my head ferrum forge makes "one offs" and he makes the knife one time. and it wont be made and manufactured again.

 

[redsquid2]

I have a more specific example:
These two are from the same pattern. These are the only pictures I have. On top is yellow G10 with carbon fiber pins. On bottom is tiger stripe G10 and I believe those are stainless pins.

Here is the same pattern, with Chechen wood and brass pins:

Here is a fourth one from the same pattern: White G10 and copper pins. Plus, I punched a hole in the ricasso, which was not there on the other ones.

I made one more knife from this pattern, but I no longer have pictures of it. So that's a total of 5, and they are all part of a "series," right?

 

[Mitchell Knives]

For me, a "one off" is generally a knife design or configuration that I have no plans on making again.

However, a lot of people see those "one off" knives, and want to place an order.

So, I usually end up making more anyway.

 

[David Stifle]

I don't see how you can sell it as a One Off if it's a series. A one off is just that, a single blade which won't be made again, adding jimping and calling it a different name seems disengenious to me. I won't do it, anyway. In your example, I think you have a standard pattern, with options. That's how I'd adverise it.

 

[jdm61]

Any knife that I make as I still can't get two of the bastards to look alike.