I've been thinking about my process... and have honestly been collecting thoughts on it since I sold my first knife over a decade ago. What finishes would define Heartwood Forge? And how could I possibly stick to just one finish, process or material if I want to experiment, explore and grow as craftsperson? Additionally, how could I maintain consistency of my work if I am constantly searching for and using recycled materials? This has been a running internal dialogue for literally the last decade and it’s been consuming my mind even more recently as things have grown and we’ve transitioned to a single income household.

Recently, it clicked that if I simply defined collections based on the process & materials, I would be carving out space for experimentation and growth while at the same time increasing consistency. Having this in place (even briefly) has freed up mental space and brought more focus to my work.

Below, I’ve outlined the different collections that I’ve been producing over the years. As I’ve introduced virgin materials into my offerings, I have not cut back or reduced my use of recycled materials. It’s an ethos that I will never give up on.

I hope this helps clarify any questions and if it brings up new questions, shoot me an email. will@heartwoodforge.com

Heartwood Forge Classic Collection Paring Knives

Classic: These are limited to 1-3 different designs which are hand forged from a classic, virgin 10-series carbon steel. Full tang construction, workhorse geometry and finish with simple, reclaimed handle materials. These designs may vary from season to season or year to year.

Heartwood Forge Heritage Chef Knives Collection

Heritage: Each knife is one of a kind and hand forged from recycled carbon steel that has been chemically identified. Tapered, rounded spine and full tang construction for a balanced and comfortable hand feel. Finished by hand to a silky-smooth finish. Simple, performance oriented, recycled, heirloom quality.

Artisan: This is the collection for my layered virgin steels, damascus, laminated, integral or special alloys along with premium handle materials. These blades are also one of a kind and a place for me to explore processes and materials of interest to me using premium materials. Some are experimental and some you will see again and again as tried and true alloys, processes and designs that I have fallen in love with.

Origin: Capturing the beauty of recycled materials has always been my passion. In true HWF fashion, this collection takes recycled materials and combines it with techniques of fusing and laminating. You’ll find my favorite materials, like suminagashi (multi layer laminate) using bourbon barrel straps from my Willett Barrel stash and recycled high carbon steel and more. My roots took hold to the dreams of these knives and it’s here where my roots remain.