2021

I embarked on my knife-making journey in 2021, armed with just the basics and a plethora of tutorials from YouTube and seasoned craftsmen. My earliest pieces were far from perfect, but as my dad taught me, the best way to learn is simply by doing! On the right is the very first knife—crafted side by side with a close friend. We each made one; mine is here, and his, still likely without its handle. They weren't masterpieces by any standard, but their beauty lies in the story they tell and the lessons they hold.

Not long after, I received my first custom order, from friends of my parents, no less. It was a Santoku that now sails the seas on a sailboat, traveling the oceans more than I ever have. That knife also taught me a crucial lesson the hard way: steel can indeed burn under direct flame!

At the end of that year, I created my first matching set of knives, another milestone for me. In 2022, I even confident enough to bring that set to a local market.

2022

In 2022, I invested heavily in refining my forging techniques and expanding my toolkit. Early in the year, I encountered challenges such as a forge weld that split open, a vivid reminder of the learning curve in this craft. This setback, however, only spurred my determination.

As the year progressed, I acquired some significant new equipment: my first real anvil, replacing the makeshift railroad track from Groningen Station, and a restored 1900s blacksmith's leg vise from France. The most transformative addition was a flywheel press, which I immediately put to use crafting three new knives that, despite their imperfections, now proudly reside in my own kitchen.

I also made my presence felt at a market in Groningen, where I not only sold several pieces but significantly expanded my customer base through networking. The interactions at the market were invaluable, boosting my confidence and visibility in the community.

2023

This year, I expanded into custom orders and diversified beyond knives by taking on projects like restoring an old French axe, which was both a learning experience and a new challenge. I improved my workspace by setting it up permanently outdoors, which streamlined my process significantly. 

My focus on enhancing the fit and finish of each piece paid off, allowing me to contribute a finely crafted knife to a charity auction. I also crafted a saya, a traditional sheath, enhancing the presentation and safety of my knives. Encouraged by my initial success in axe restoration, I continued to work on restoring and making axes, further broadening my skills and offerings.

In december 2023 I joined the Dutch Knife Artisans community, who have thought me so much about forging and knife making. They also opened many doors for collaborations and better equipment. Shoutout to the makers of DKA! 

2024

This year has been one of exploration and growth. I expanded my work beyond knives, creating hand-forged items like beer openers and walnut crackers—an exciting way to combine utility and craftsmanship. On the bladesmithing side, I explored more intricate techniques, such as go-mai blade construction and experimenting with new handle shapes. A highlight was successfully forge-welding a blade using wrought iron cladding, a skill I had long wanted to master.

I also began making unique utility knives from Groningen railway track steel. These knives, forged from such a distinctive material, have been a rewarding project, and I’m excited to make more of them in the coming year.

For the first time in years, I returned to a market, standing alongside fellow maker Buisman Blades. It was a great opportunity to connect with customers and showcase my work in person again.

To better share my process, I’ve focused on creating more videos and improving my photography with a new setup, highlighting my work on the website and social media. I also updated my magnetic knife holders to feature solid wood designs and look forward to adding more woodworking and forged products to my collection in the future.