Over the past couple of years I have had several people ask if I offer knife making classes. While I feel there are many more qualified people out there to teach people to become knife makers, I do feel I have some unique skills to share.
A couple years ago, I was approached by my 17 year old son Mike. He wanted me to build a Damascus art dagger for him. After some consideration I decided that we should build the knife together. After all, what better way to get to spend quality time with my teenager who really has no time for me anymore!
We spent just about a week together in the shop. We first designed the knife he wanted, built the Damascus steel for it, then built an awesome Gothic style dagger.
My son was almost as proud of the knife as I was. Of course I had reasons to be proud that went far beyond the finished knife.
We worked together as a team on a project that was meaningful to both of us. We built a beautiful object that Mike will hopefully have forever to remind him of that time we spent together.
A few months ago, I was approached by a friend of mine, Doug. He asked me if I would build him a "father son" keepsake hunting knife set. He explained that he didn't even care what they cost. He just wanted them for the memory of something in common with his 15 year old son.
This got me thinking of the joy and memories I had created by building the Dagger with Mike. So, I encouraged him to bring his son up to my shop and the three of us build the knives together.
Doug was skeptical about having the ability to build the knives and not, "Screw them up!". I assured him that I would coach them through the process, help them with the difficult parts and make sure the knives didn't get, "screwed up!".
Doug and his son came up with a knife design they liked. Then they spent a bit over a week building Damascus and working on the knives in my shop.
By the time they were all done, they had a matching set of Damascus hunting knives that will serve them for a lifetime.
But more importantly, according to Doug, they have a million dollar experience, and memories that will also last them a lifetime.
If anyone is interested in participating in this kind of experience with your son or daughter, please contact me about the details...
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