I have been playing around with making knives for about a year and a half, now, and over this course of time I have learned a few things about myself, as well as the craft. As I have reached the decision to go semipro with this, my intent is to create knives that are first useful, and second, aesthetically pleasing. Much of my influence in design comes from simple styles like Shaker furniture, or
the Arts and Crafts Era. Knives are first, and foremost, tools to assist us in daily tasks. My work background as a Marine, and then as a Soldier, have allowed me to use knives for a variety of tasks, and have led me to hold the view that a well-made knife should hold up to the rigors of its “worst case scenario” use. From the way that the edge holds up to use, to the way the handle fits the hand, it is important to consider these “zombie apocalypse” scenarios, when creating a knife. While the normal use of a knife may be as simple as pealing an apple, or opening a box, the same knife may be that single tool that stands between life and death. Of equal importance to me, is the work I have started doing with some of my fellow soldiers who have been injured, both in combat and in other ways. At this point, I have several ideas as to where I would like to take this, but for now I am just going to keep at what has been working. This informal group, which has come to be referred to “Blade Therapy”, was the result of my recognition of the subtle ways in which working with my hands allows me to quiet my mind. I cannot say for sure, but I would wager that it does the same for others, as well. My main focus for going semipro is for no other reason than expanding the impact that I think this approach to craftsmanship can have on community. I am currently working towards my degree in Environmental Science, with a focus on sustainability. While it may appear to be unrelated, the idea that some resources are non-renewable, in my mind extends beyond the commonly held idea of resources to include people. With that being said, I also feel strongly about supporting individuals who are making an effort to provide services in both the arts and crafts. I have had the honor of meeting some of these men and women, who strive for perfection in their work, and who are unfortunately displaced, in terms of our society. Society is made up of individuals, and as such, there is a place for those who do not “fit the mold”. Less about the appreciation for the finer things in life, and more about the recognition that artistic expression plays a vital role in the quality of our lives, I will attempt to bring attention to those I feel deserve recognition for bringing intrinsic value to the lives of many. This is not a political philosophy, and I speak for no one other than myself; this is how I choose to express my interpretation of reality. It is my hope that I can shape the world into a better place in the same way that I move steel against my anvil, by integrating timeless craft with reaching out to those who have been marginalized in our society. I do not practice social triage; all are welcome, as long as they seek self-improvement. I humbly ask others who share a similar passion for working with their hands to do the same, and reach out. While full time teaching is not an option for many, there are those who need to find meaning, and simply pointing them in a direction may help them open their eyes and quiet their mind.
