I started making knives in 2021 and have made around 100 so far. I have learned mostly from YouTube “how to” channels. I would like to find a local mentor or network to help me continue developing my skills and eventually test for my JS stamp. I’m in Leavenworth, KS. In particular I am trying to get my differential heat treat technique down so I can produce a consistent hamon. I got a good result using some 1084 and FB6 clay on my first attempt (see picture). Beginners’ luck I suppose. Now I am trying the same technique on some 1075 from New Jersey Steel Baron that is supposed to be alloyed specifically for this but getting crappy results.
Is anybody near me that can meet in person once in a while or at least keep an online dialogue going?
Hello John, and welcome. If you haven't found it already, here is a link to a list of our rated smiths, according to their location, so that you can perhaps find somebody near you:
Welcome to the club!
Jesus Hernandez posted a youtube video on hamons not that long ago that's some really good info. Walter Sorrells also has some great stuff and a video on his process if you haven't stumbled across him already. Personally, I haven't had a ton of luck with 1075 either. Not sure why, just doesn't seem to like me all that much. The higher carbon stuff like 1095, w1, w2, and 26c3 I've had a lot more luck with and more consistent hamon results.
Hope you can meet up with a local smith and work through your process some more! That's a good looking knife you shared, and I'm looking forward to seeing more from you.
Welcome aboard John.
You can find my email address at the link Kevin posted. Feel free to email me with any questions or discussion stuff. I'll do what I can to help you out. If you Facebook, you can find me as J.States Bladesmith.
“So I'm lightin' out for the territory, ahead of the scared and the weak and the mean spirited, because Aunt Sally is fixin’ to adopt me and civilize me, and I can't stand it. I've been there before.”
