What is the most inconspicuous way to put a “makers mark” a knife?

Steelhog

Steelhog

Joined
Jul 2, 2009
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I understand the importance of maker recognition and branding but I personally don’t like branding or makers marks in general - on anything. I feel almost every knife/product looks better with no mark. Now that I am making my own knives, I feel the need to somehow “mark it” but run into this personal dislike of branding and makers marks on products. What is the most inconspicuous way to put a “makers mark” a knife?
 
I don't have a makers mark yet, but I have the same aversion to large "billboard" markings. Someone recommended to me to put it on the sheath, using a soldering iron.
 
navman said:
I don't have a makers mark yet, but I have the same aversion to large "billboard" markings. Someone recommended to me to put it on the sheath, using a soldering iron.
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At least I am not alone. lol. Yep don't like logos or markings on anything. I have a closet full of plain shirts and I even de-badge my vehicles. The sheath is a good idea but just wondering if that would last.
 
ferider said:
Not a maker but a potential customer: I have several knives marked on the spine and I like it.
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I am pretty new to this and I'm certainly guilty of the "billboard" mark. I was just looking at one of my favorite purchased knives and it has the mark on the spine. I may think about that, or maybe simplifying my logo so I can put it on the ricasso instead of the blade itself.
 
dwaterfield said:
I am pretty new to this and I'm certainly guilty of the "billboard" mark. I was just looking at one of my favorite purchased knives and it has the mark on the spine. I may think about that, or maybe simplifying my logo so I can put it on the ricasso instead of the blade itself.
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I think lots of people really like the makers marks or don't care. I think I am in the minority on this one with a preference to none or not noticeable at all.
 
steelhog said:
I think lots of people really like the makers marks or don't care. I think I am in the minority on this one with a preference to none or not noticeable at all.
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Not sure how many feel that way. Maybe some of the more experienced makers have some thoughts on it? I do like seeing *something* because it tells me the person had pride in what they made, pride enough to put their mark on it.

navman said:
I also thought about getting with a custom EDM mosaic pin maker and having a mosaic pin created with a makers mark.
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I like this idea also. I've seen a few that are really cool. It's a bit limited on size/complexity but if you're going for something more subtle it makes sense. I just got a bunch of tubing and rods because I want to experiment with making a custom mosaic pattern but I like the EDM approach too.
 
steelhog said:
I understand the importance of maker recognition and branding but I personally don’t like branding or makers marks in general - on anything. I feel almost every knife/product looks better with no mark. Now that I am making my own knives, I feel the need to somehow “mark it” but run into this personal dislike of branding and makers marks on products. What is the most inconspicuous way to put a “makers mark” a knife?
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Custom mosaic pins are good. But, for the best most inconspicuous maker's mark, you must see WValtakis WValtakis work. When you find the mark, then you will know... "this is the way."
 
You could also put the mark on the tang under the scales (especially if the scales or handle are removable). Another idea is the butt or the tang at the butt area.
 
I was the same way, I really don't like marketing, and flashy stuff.
I think It's gaudy. I like plain.......and boring.

I didn't want my Literal name on my knives. (my name doesn't have a good flow/sound to it)
But I know I Needed something.
20, 30, 50, etc years from now..... somehow your work needs to be identified.

Personally, I feel it's required if you are planning on selling.
if you are just giving away, making for friends, whatever...... My earlier friends blades don't have my Brand on them.
if/when I sharpen them I'll ask them if they would like to be added.


Also look at it as advertising.
Someone here is going to LOVE the knife you made.
They are going to take Tons of photos of them, and post pictures of them all over the forums.........(i know, wishful thinking, Right?) hahah.
Everyone will see them, and wonder how they can get one, too! :D
 
I like a makers mark, it says : I made this and I stand behind my work.
I agree that it does't have to be large or the first thing you see.
I mark my knives with my name.
I've marked a few full tangs on the tang between the scales. I like that.

You can mark a sheath but if the knife and sheath get seperated you end up with an unmarked knife.
 
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