HANDMADE TO ORDER · GRONINGEN, NL
Commission a Knife
Every knife is forged by hand, one at a time, in my workshop in Groningen. Fill in what you're looking for — I'll reply within a few days with a quote and timeline.
How It Works
01 — FILL THE FORM
Tell me what you want. Don't worry about being too specific — we'll refine it together.
02 — QUOTE & DEPOSIT
I'll reply within a few days. A 50% deposit confirms your spot in the queue.
03 — FORGING & UPDATES
I'll forge your knife and keep you updated with progress photos throughout.
04 — DELIVERY
Final payment on completion. Shipped securely, or pick up in Groningen.
Questions first?
Email me at floris@finerknives.nl or use the contact page.
Common Questions
Commissioning a Custom Knife
How much does a custom hand-forged knife cost?
A commissioned knife starts at €150 for a simple single-steel petty, and runs to €1,200 or more for a full Damascus set with exotic handle materials. A standard chef's knife in 80CrV2 with a hardwood handle typically falls between €300 and €500. Complexity of steel, blade size, and handle material are the main cost drivers.
How long does a custom knife commission take?
Most commissions are completed in 3 to 6 months. This includes design, sourcing, forging, heat treatment, handle work, and finishing. I work alone, so each piece gets my full attention. If you have a specific deadline — a gift, an event — mention it in the notes and I'll let you know if it's achievable.
What steels do you work with?
I primarily forge 80CrV2 high carbon steel, which I heat treat to 62 HRC. For layered work I use San Mai (80CrV2 core clad in 15N20), Go-Mai (5-layer composite), Damascus in ladder or random patterns, and Wrought Iron cladding over an 80CrV2 core. For customers who need low-maintenance stainless, I also work with Nitro-B.
Can I choose my own handle material?
Yes. I keep a stock of over a dozen hardwoods including Teak, Olive Wood, Padouk, Pao Rosa, African Blackwood, Purple Heart, Walnut, and Spalted Birch. Buffalo Horn and mixed contrasting wood combinations are also available. Handle style is either Japanese wa-handle (octagonal) or Western full-tang riveted, with optional copper, brass, or wrought iron bolsters.
What is the payment process?
After you submit a commission request, I'll reply within a few days with a quote and estimated timeline. A 50% deposit secures your place in the queue and covers materials. The remaining 50% is due on completion, before the knife ships. There's no obligation until you confirm the quote.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. I ship to most countries from my workshop in Groningen, Netherlands. Knives are packed securely for transit. Shipping cost and import duties (if applicable in your country) are not included in the knife price and will be calculated at the time of delivery. You can also pick up in Groningen if you prefer.
I'm not sure what I want — can you advise?
Absolutely. Just select "Open to advice" in the steel, finish, or handle fields and describe your intended use in the notes. Whether you cook Japanese-style or you want a robust workhorse for rough prep, I'll recommend the combination that best fits how you actually use a knife.
What is hand-forging and how is it different from factory knives?
Hand-forging means shaping the steel by heating it in a coal fire and hammering it to form — the same method used by blacksmiths for centuries. Unlike stock removal (grinding a knife from a flat bar) or factory stamping, forging compresses and aligns the grain structure of the steel, resulting in a blade that holds an edge longer and has a character no machine-made knife can replicate. Every knife I make passes through my hands dozens of times before it leaves the workshop.