First, let’s start with that all of my clients and commissions matter and are treated with the utmost care. A high end commission starts at $1000, which can be for the everyday person, celebrity, or royalty. The reason being is that it requires more time to forge these requests. Also when it comes to a high end commission, crafting a custom knife and sword for them demands even more precision, creativity, and mastery of traditional and modern techniques due to the higher expectations and legal practices that need to be adhered to.
Here’s an in-depth, yet easy to understand guide for the process of creating those high end bespoke blades:
Client Consultation
Purpose: Understand the intended use—functional tool, display piece, or collectible. Examples can include this being an heirloom to be passed through the generations, gift during a ceremony, or personal collection.
Style Preferences:
Knives: Options can include, yet not limited to chef’s knives, hunting knives, tactical blades, and art knives.
Swords: Designs such as katanas, rapiers, or broadswords.
Customization: Incorporate personal elements such as monograms, symbols, or family crests.
Budget and Timeline: Align expectations with the scope of the project.
Concept and Design
Sketch or Render:
Create hand-drawn sketches or digital 3D renderings for approval.
Include blade shape, handle details, and decorative elements.
Balance and Ergonomics:
Ensure the design supports proper balance and a comfortable grip.
Adjust proportions to achieve both functionality and aesthetics.
Material Selection
Blade Material:
Damascus Steel: Known for strength and intricate patterns.
High-Carbon Steel: Excellent edge retention and toughness.
Stainless Steel: Corrosion-resistant for display or utility.
Handle Materials:
Exotic Woods: Ebony, burl wood, or amboyna for elegance.
Natural Elements: Ivory, antler, or horn for timeless appeal.
Modern Options: Stabilized resin or carbon fiber for durability and modern aesthetics.
Accents:
Precious Metals: Gold, silver, or brass for guards, pommels, or inlays.
Gemstones or Mother-of-Pearl: Used sparingly for a luxurious touch.
Forging and Shaping
Blade Forging:
Heat steel to forge the blade’s shape using traditional techniques.
For intricate designs, use pattern welding for Damascus steel.
Stock Removal:
For precise, clean lines, remove material from a steel blank.
Heat Treatment:
Harden the blade for durability and sharpness.
Temper to achieve a balance between hardness and flexibility.
Grinding and Polishing:
Shape the edge and refine the blade profile.
Polish to a satin or mirror finish depending on the client’s preference.
Crafting the Handle
Design and Ergonomics:
Ensure the handle fits the user’s grip comfortably.
Match the handle design to the blade’s aesthetic.
Attachment:
Full Tang: Offers durability and balance.
Hidden Tang: Provides a seamless, elegant look.
Finishing Details:
Sand and polish the handle to perfection.
Add carvings, engravings, or inlays as per the client’s request.
Assembly
Precision Fit:
Align and assemble the blade, guard, and handle seamlessly.
Ensure no gaps or misalignments for a professional finish.
Final Adjustments:
Test the balance, weight, and ergonomics.
Sharpen the blade to the desired edge.
Finishing Touches
Blade Enhancements:
Etch for Damascus patterns or decorative motifs.
Add protective coatings for longevity.
Handle Finishing:
Seal natural materials to prevent wear and damage.
Polish to highlight the material’s natural beauty.
Accessories:
Create a custom sheath or scabbard using leather, wood, or metal.
Decorate with embossing, stitching, or engraving.
Presentation and Delivery
Luxury Packaging:
Use velvet-lined cases, polished wooden boxes, or leather pouches.
Include branding and personal notes for an exclusive touch.
Documentation:
Provide a certificate of authenticity and care instructions.
Share a booklet or video detailing the creation process.
To recap, current commissions in 2024 and beyond, start at $1000. If you have a vision of what you are looking for, contact me and let’s talk.
About The Author
Zack Jonas was born and raised in Massachusetts in the 1980’s and is still a New Englander today. With his growing love for art over the years, he took an introductory bladesmithing class at MASSart. It was there that he learned one of his most valuable lessons, which is that everyone has some insight worth learning. Today, he is a full-time bladesmith and feels incredibly fortunate to have found his calling.