In this immersive three-day class, students will embark on the journey of creating their own chef's knife from start to finish. Under Allen Rozon's expert guidance, participants will learn the intricate process of designing, forging, and heat treating a professional-grade chef's knife. Students who have previously taken the Damascus pattern-welded steel class (Part 1) are welcome to bring their steel to use in this class.

What to Expect:

• Day 1: Design Fundamentals and Template Creation

• Design Considerations: Allen will begin by explaining the key design considerations for a chef's knife, including blade geometry, balance, and ergonomics. Students will gain insights into what makes a chef's knife both functional and comfortable to use.

• Personalized Design: Armed with this knowledge, participants will create their own knife design, which will serve as a template throughout the forging process. Allen will provide individual feedback to ensure each design is both practical and achievable.

• Material Selection: Students will learn about different steel types suitable for chef's knives, including the option to use their own Damascus steel created in the previous class.

• Day 2: Forging Techniques

• Forging the Blade: Under Allen's guidance, students will heat and hammer their chosen steel into the rough shape of their designed knife. This hands-on experience will cover techniques such as drawing out, tapering, and beveling.

• Profiling and Refining: Participants will learn to refine their blade's shape using various tools and techniques, bringing their design to life.

• Day 3: Heat Treatment and Initial Grinding

• Heat Treatment: Allen will demonstrate the critical process of heat treating, including normalizing, hardening, and tempering. Students will learn how these steps affect the blade's performance and durability.

• Initial Grinding and Finishing: The class will conclude with an introduction to grinding and finishing techniques, preparing the knife for final sharpening and handle fitting (which will be covered in a subsequent class).

By the end of this class, students will have forged and heat-treated their own chef's knife, gaining a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship involved in creating a high-quality culinary tool. This hands-on experience will provide a solid foundation for further exploration into the art of bladesmithing.

Class runs 3 days, from 9am-5pm each day, with a 1h lunch. All materials, safety equipment, coffee and tea will be provided. Lunch is available in town / an indoor lunch area with a microwave and fridge is provided on site if you bring your own food. Please wear closed-toe shoes and long pants.

Do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. See you there!

COST: $900 (+ HST + eventbrite registration fee)