Forge a Survival Knife (Introduction to Knifesmithing)

Transform a piece of ordinary rebar into a beautiful knife that you design!

This workshop will immerse you in the world of knifesmithing – the art, science, and practice of using heat and hammers (among other tools) to shape steel. You will transform a piece of ordinary piece of rebar (steel reinforcing rod) into a beautiful knife of your own design.

The first portion of this workshop will focus on heating and shaping the rebar with a hammer and anvil. You’ll heat up your steel in our propane forge until it’s red-hot then use a hammer and anvil to create the profile of your knife. Rinse, repeat until you have the shape you want. It’s a great workout!

After you’ve created the rough shape of your knife, you’ll use a grinder to refine the shape and form the bevel of your knife, which is the core of its cutting edge.

Finally, you’ll heat the knife up one more time and quench it in oil to harden the blade. This involves red-hot metal and usually a little fire when you dunk your knife into the oil. It’s the ultimate Instagrammable photo or video! Ever seen “Forged in Fire”? That’s exactly what you’ll be doing!

We’ll then take a break while your knife is tempered. Feel free to grab a bite at one of the great restaurants in Gowanus or check out the canal. You’re also welcome to utilize our lounge and rooftop space to relax with your food, a drink, and your workshop buddies. Take advantage of your time out of the apartment and make a night of it!

Once we reconvene, you’ll put the finishing touches on your masterpiece – wrapping your knife’s handle and sharpening it to a razor’s edge. You’ll leave the workshop with a stunning piece of artistry, a slightly sore arm, and a newfound pride of your craftsmanship.

Click here if you want to book for the Date Night couple class instead.

What You’ll Be Making: Your own custom forged knife

What’s You’ll Be Doing: Shaping your blade with copious amounts of heat and hammers, plus some help from a grinder

Skill Level: Beginner — no previous experience is required.

Length: 5 hours (including a 1 hour break)