The Finish on Handmade Knives

DIY Knife Makers
For those venturing into the realm of handmade knives, the finish on your blade is just as crucial as the blade itself. In this guide, we’ll delve into the various types of finishes, the finishing process, and why a quality finish can significantly enhance your knife. Additionally, we’ll highlight Mellies Victor Handmade Knives, a great source of inspiration and top-notch products for your next project.

Types of Finishes

When it comes to knife finishes, there are several options, each with its own unique look and benefits:

1. Satin Finish:
This is one of the most common finishes. It has a smooth, matte look that reduces glare and hides scratches well. It’s achieved by sanding the blade in one direction with increasing grits of sandpaper.

2. Mirror Finish:
As the name suggests, this finish is highly reflective and shiny. It’s achieved by polishing the blade to a high grit, often up to 2000 or more. While it looks stunning, it can show scratches and fingerprints easily.

3. Stonewashed Finish:
This finish gives the blade a rugged, textured look. It’s achieved by tumbling the blade with abrasive materials. It’s great for hiding scratches and wear.

4. Bead Blasted Finish:
This finish has a uniform, matte texture created by blasting the blade with fine glass beads. It reduces glare and gives the blade a non-reflective surface.

The Finishing Process
Creating a beautiful finish on your knife involves several steps:

1. Grinding:
Start by grinding the blade to shape. This removes any rough edges and prepares the blade for finer work.

2. Sanding:
Sand the blade with progressively finer grits of sandpaper. This step smooths out the surface and removes any scratches from the grinding process.

3. Polishing:
For a mirror finish, polish the blade with a buffing wheel and polishing compound. This step can take time but results in a stunning, reflective surface.

4. Final Touches:
Depending on the desired finish, you might add a stonewashed or bead blasted texture. Each finish requires its own specific technique and tools.

Why Finish Matters

A good finish not only enhances the appearance of your knife but also improves its functionality. A well-finished blade can resist corrosion better, reduce glare, and hide scratches from everyday use. Plus, it just feels great to hold a knife that looks as good as it performs.

Check Out Mellies Victor Handmade Knives

If you’re looking for inspiration or high-quality materials for your next project, be sure to visit Mellies Victor Handmade Knives. We offer a range of beautifully crafted knives that showcase the artistry and skill that goes into each piece. Whether you’re a seasoned knife maker or just starting out, you’ll find something to spark your creativity.