I've updated the style of the pantograph templates. Moving forward, all of the templates will be black and silver, and they will have the inlay's name and size listed on the template. As a result, I have an inventory of the previous style that I'm selling for $10 each. Buy four or more, and you will receive free shipping within the US. Check out the video for more info.
To see what I currently have in inventory, use the following link. I'll be removing templates from the list as they're sold.
I've been using these CraftOptics Magnifying Eyeglasses for about a year now, and they've really been handy in the shop. If you're thinking about upgrading your magnification, check out these reviews that I recently did. You can learn more about CraftOptics at their website CraftOptics.com.
(Sep. 2024)
In early February of 2001, a friend of mine sent me to a web site that showed how to make a knife with hand tools. Using that tutorial, I completed my first knife in mid February. It was a very basic skinner with oak scales. It wasn't the greatest knife, but I was very proud of it at the time.
I knew after completing that knife that I wanted to make more. I was fortunate enough to meet several other knifemakers in the area who were willing to take me on and teach me the skill.
I now primarily make folding knives, and my specialty is building slipjoints. I've always liked the traditional patterns, and there's nothing like the walk-and-talk of a well tuned knife.
Got templates? If not, I can hook you up. I'm offering templates that can be used with pantograph mills for cutting out shields and pockets. These templates are made at a 4:1 ratio, and they can be resized to meet your particular needs. I can also build custom templates, if you want something that you don't see listed.
After taking a couple of years off from building spinners, I'm back at it. If you're not familiar with what head spinners are or how to use them, then check out the video on the "No Peen Head Spinners" page. The spinner kits can be purchased in several different configurations. Follow the link below for more info.
Can. Damascus - Schwarzer
Blacksmithing For Beginners
Bladesmithing - Blacksmith
Slipjoints - Craig Brewer
Multi-Blades - Craig Brewer
Multi-Blades - Bill Ruple
Primitive Bladesmithing
Hammer Making
Basic Hunters
Advanced Hunters
Slipjoints - Luke Swenson
Tips and Tricks
Bowie Knives
Slipjoints - Craig Brewer
Can. Damascus - J. Neilson
Scale Release Autos
Chris Crawford of Saltillo made his first knife in 2001, having learned the skill from the late Ted McMinn of Mooreville.
As the years passed, he has sharpened his skills and gained experience. He starts with bare materials and finishes with a handcrafted knife.
Everyone likes a nice little folder. I’m not talking about one with a pocketclip, just a good, little slip joint, something that can be used for everyday chores like opening boxes, cleaning fingernails, or picking out splinters. I was raised on slip joints, barlows, Kissing Cranes, Schrade Old Timers and a host of others. What is cool is that you can still find the old ones at knife shows. I have both of my father’s Old Timers that are worn almost to nothing on the blades.
With nostalgia about slip joints still running strong, Chris Crawford offers the EDC-1. It looks great but does it perform? Let’s see.