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KNIFE MAKING PROFILE - DRIES VAN DYK

 

Knife making became my passion about 15 years ago.

After building my own equipment, I attended three courses with Gavie and Thinus Herbst — one fixed blade, the other two a liner lock and slip back folders course.

 

I love to build a folding knife now and then but mainly I enjoy making fixed blade knives. In my designs, I love shape, texture and colour.

 

Because of an Electrical and Mechanical background I designed and built an electrical etching machine, a titanium anodizing unit and a polishing machine to enhance the quality of my knives and to make life easier for my fellow knife makers in South Africa.

 

Due to my passion for knife-making, I try very hard to keep it a hobby and to limit the amount of orders. I see each knife as a project and dedicate myself to it in order to deliver a top quality product.

 

Every process in my knife-making I do personally as great enjoyment is derived from each step in the chain. (Designing, building the knife, taper tang, heat treatment, finishing and leather work)

 

Now that I’m retired, I will have time to enter more shows and may at a later stage join the guild. I have always endeavoured to maintain a high standard with each knife.

 

What makes me love knife making? I love to create things and find that the challenge of the various different and difficult processes are exciting and stimulating.

 

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