Forge Your Own Knife (2-Day Workshop)

Build Your Own Knife

Two-day workshop · Approximately 14 hours · $450 per person

Work through the knife-making process with Gabe Mabry, Forged in Fire champion, at Doberman Forge in North Carolina.

From shaping the blade to fitting the handle and sharpening the edge, you’ll take part in making a functional knife with guidance throughout. No previous experience is required.

What You’ll Do

• Discuss and select a practical design.
• Forge and profile the blade.
• Learn and participate in heat treatment.
• Time on grinder making the profile.
• Fit, shape, and finish handle scales.
• Sharpen and finish your knife.

What’s Included

• Standard blade steel and handle materials.
• Tools, abrasives, and protective equipment.
• Instruction throughout both days.
• Lunch both days—please mention dietary needs when scheduling.
• Your completed knife to take home.

A sheath is not included. The workshop focuses on completing the knife; sheath-making is not part of the schedule.

Design & Size Limits

The standard workshop includes a straightforward full-tang knife with a blade up to 5.5 inches.

The main limit is time. Your design must be practical to complete in two days. Elaborate shapes and construction, including kukris and karambits, are outside the scope of this class.

Bring ideas or reference photos, and we’ll discuss a suitable design. Not every design can be accommodated.

Optional Upgrades

Damascus steel, premium handle materials, and longer blades may be available for an additional charge.

Discuss upgrades before purchasing them. Longer blades require advance approval, and Damascus must be arranged ahead of time so I can prepare the material. Available options and pricing depend on the project.

Purchase First, Then Contact Me to Schedule

This purchase does not reserve dates. After checkout, email Sales@DobermanForge.com with your order number, attendee names, preferred dates, and any design or upgrade requests. I do not automatically contact purchasers to schedule.

If you need particular dates, check availability before purchasing.

Booking stays open year-round, but classes do not take place from October 1 through Christmas. Additional dates are blocked before major shows. January dates can be reserved during the holiday period and tend to fill quickly.

Arrange your booking within 12 months of purchase. The workshop itself may take place later on agreed dates.

Start times are arranged with each student or group, from 9 a.m. onward. We’ll confirm the schedule for both days when booking.

Gifts, Groups & Rescheduling

You can give this workshop as a gift or transfer it to another attendee. Provide the original order number when scheduling.

For group or private-session requests, contact me before purchasing.

If you need to reschedule, notify me before the affected session begins. Earlier notice is appreciated; replacement dates depend on availability.

Missing a scheduled session without notice beforehand counts as that session being used and does not entitle you to a replacement session. Class purchases are non-refundable for change of mind.

Younger Students

Contact me before purchasing for a younger student. Suitability depends on maturity, attention, and readiness for two full days of workshop activity. Students under 18 must attend with a parent or guardian.

Before You Arrive

Closed-toe shoes and natural-fiber clothing are required. Avoid synthetic fabrics, loose clothing, and dangling jewelry; tie back long hair. During winter, wear layers you can remove as the shop warms up.

The workshop involves heat, noise, standing, hammering, and power tools. Please discuss any accommodation needs before purchasing.

Two Dobermans live on the property. They are enthusiastic greeters, and the younger dog may jump up or mouth during greetings. Let me know beforehand about dog allergies or concerns.

On arrival, remain in your vehicle and call/text 704-985-3136 so I can secure the dogs and direct you where to park.

Scheduling required after purchase. Email sales@dobermanforge.com with your order number to arrange your class. I do not automatically contact purchasers to schedule.

Arrange your booking within 12 months. Classes do not take place from October 1 through Christmas, but booking remains open for January and other available dates.

Need particular dates? Check availability before purchasing.

Full class information · Refund policy