Knife Making: Harmon Blades

April 20-21 2024 or June 15-16 2024

Saturday and Sunday 9 - 5 pm

PREREQUISITE-Blacksmithing 1

Blending styles and techniques from both Japanese and Western knifemakers, this class will cover clay hamon heat-treating, acid etching the blades, hand-sanding and finish of the blade and handle, and the importance of a good grind.

Hamon is a visible indication between the hard and soft portions of the blade obtained by using differential hardening. The end effect is an organic-looking line separating two tones on the blade which looks even more striking against a finely sharpened edge.

This class will focus on both the functionality and beauty of the knife.

Guest instructor Ben Graber has been making knives since 2017 specializing in hunting and kitchen blades. In recent years, he’s shipped his handcrafted Graber Knives to sportsmen, chefs, and collectors around the country. Most have discovered his knives on social media where he frequently posts his latest works: @GraberForge on Instagram and Facebook.

Ben is opening a new shop near his homestead in White Pigeon, MI, and you can find his online shop at www.graberforge.com.