Care for a custom piece

The Blade

       After each use, clean and thoroughly dry your knife, then apply a skim coat of oil. Mineral oil, typically used for cutting boards, works well. Simply apply some with a paper towel or rag, then wipe off the excess. On full tang pieces, be sure to get the steel around the handle, as this is easily overlooked, but the oil in skin is corrosive enough to cause rusting. Blade discoloration from certain foods is expected, this is called a patina. It is not harmful to you or your blade, and it adds the story and character of your knife!

     The edge can be maintained regularly with a honing steel or ceramic rod. When this eventually doesn’t do the trick, I recommend 1000 and 5000 grit water stones to bring the edge back up to razor sharp, then a leather strop to refine and polish it. If you don't have the equipment or don't feel comfortable doing this on your own, contact me and I can take care of it for you.

The Handle

       While less attention is needed than the blade, wooden handles should be taken care of from time to time as well. Due to oils in skin, the finish on your handle can wear away with use. To keep it in good shape, just give it a coat of boiled linseed oil, danish oil, beeswax, or mineral oil at least once per year. Avoid soaking your knife or leaving in direct sunlight or high heat for very long, as these can cause warping or cracking.

Main Points

• Wash and fully dry knife after use.

• Oil lightly before putting away.

• Maintain edge with honing steel or ceramic rod.

• Do not leaving on drying mats or in the sink.

• Never put your knife in the dishwasher, this will ruin both the blade and handle.