Schmiedefeuer - Advanced knife-making course

Course Objective

This course is designed for participants with basic knife-making skills who want to go beyond standard techniques. You will learn how to forge-weld multiple steels to create a unique laminate and craft a technically and aesthetically sophisticated knife blade.

Course Objective

This course is for participants with basic knife-making skills who want to go beyond standard forging techniques. You will learn how to forge-weld multiple steels to create a custom laminate and craft a technically and aesthetically sophisticated knife blade. Content & Schedule

Day 1 – Forge Welding & Blank Preparation

Welcome, objectives & brief refresher on important forging techniques

Selection of suitable steels for your laminate

Forge welding: Building, heating, welding, and folding steel stacks to create your personal laminate

Forging the blade blank from the self-made laminate

Developing the basic blade shape and tang

Heat treatment (hardening & tempering) for optimal hardness and toughness

Day 2 – Grinding & Fine Finishing

Advanced grinding: – C-grind for balanced cutting performance and robustness – S-grind for special blade shapes and cutting behavior

Deeper insights into geometry, angles, and function

Final finish: Polishing, oiling, and optionally etching to reveal the laminate structure

Conclusion: Knife maintenance, sharpening, and functional testing

What you'll take away

A unique blade made of Your own laminated steel, forged, worked, and finished with a sharp edge

Deeper understanding of metallurgical principles, forging techniques, and edge design

Safety in handling the forge, hammer, anvil, and grinding techniques

Develop your own strategies for creating functional and aesthetically pleasing knife shapes

Prerequisites

Prior blacksmithing experience or participation in a basic course

Enjoyment of craftsmanship and an interest in in-depth knifemaking

Additional Information

The course takes place in a well-equipped forge and offers an inspiring environment for creative minds. All materials are provided (laminate made of 100Cr6, Ni, and 80CrV2) (specialty steels and Damascus steel available at an additional cost), and each participant can proudly take home their own handcrafted kitchen knife at the end of the course. Refreshments are included for both days.