
FORGE
YOUR OWN
KNIFE!
More than using, selling or collecting them, MAKING YOUR OWN KNIFE IS EXTREME FUN, SERIOUSLY REWARDING, AND EVERY HUMAN SHOULD TRY- yes, even you with no past experience!
I proudly offer two Custom Class experiences, and can tailor each dynamically to suit your take-away desires.
RAILROAD SPIKE CUSTOM CLASS: a simpler "one and done" approach in which we forge a railroad spike into a functional blade with a decorative twisted handle. This is an elementary introduction to working hot steel and is available to nearly all ages. 15% off for parties of 2 or more (spike class only). Large groups can be accommodated. Please make any booking inquires below.
FULL EXPERIENCE CUSTOM CLASS: a three-part sequence of three-hour(ish) sessions where we will design a hard-using knife, forge the blade, select/fit/shape desired handle materials and hand finish your very own heirloom quality fixed blade. A sheath is included, but I make that for you.
Please place inquiries and particular requests below.
Railroad Spike Knife Custom Class - one session, 2-3 hours - $200
Full Experience Custom Class - three sessions, 2-3 hours each - $675
Whetstone Sharpening Tutorial - one session, 1-2 hours - $50
Class sessions are available at any hour between 9am - 9pm, seven days a week on a first come-first serve basis. Please use the form below to check current availability or to place inquiries otherwise. The Full Experience requires three separate sessions, needing at least 3 days between the first two for heat treating the blade and a few other steps that I do for you. The second and third sessions can be one day after the other as we must pause for handle epoxy to fully cure.
All materials, including necessary safety equipment are included, and safety is taken seriously to ensure a positive experience for all. Closed toe shoes are required and beater clothing encouraged- grease and oil stains are a guarantee. While I guide you through each step, I gladly assist and/or take over any part of the process you do not wish to execute (for example, your arms may become tired if you aren't used to forging and I step in to help).
A non-refundable 50% deposit is required to schedule, and credit may be applied as a gift card to any offerings from Cunningham Custom Shop in lieu of instruction. Final balance to be paid at beginning of first session. Classes may be rescheduled at no cost, timing subject to availability. With clear communication skills, I assure layman clarity and cohesion every step of the way. Failure to make a quality knife is an extremely unlikely outcome, but just as well I guarantee that participants will leave my class with a dependable knife, no matter what.
LET'S MAKE A KNIFE
Get in touch below to schedule a non-committal consultation! I can tailor to maximize your experience so please feel free to include any requests about a particular design in mind, inquiries about the class, needs, or modifications. If you don't hear back from me, double check your spam folder as I am proudly quick to assist.






Disclaimer: I go to great lengths to assure and educate safety, but knifemaking involves inherently hazardous risks and all participants and/or spectators are required to sign a liability waver. Minors require assessment for comprehensive ability to adhere to all safety measures and instructions, and parental/guardian supervision is required at all times for anyone under the age of 18. Safety violations, carelessness, or any otherwise potentially hazardous behaviors will not be tolerated. In the event of non-compliance, I reserve the right to refuse or revoke my services to any individual at any time, without refund.