Step-by-Step Knifemaking: You Can Do It!

A knife is the most basic tool, and the average adult uses a knife almost every day. Yet there are very few individually made knives in existence, and few people who know how to make knives.

Step by Step Knifemaking, by master knifemaker David Boye, is widely regarded as the classic on the art of handcrafted knives. Thorough, clear, detailed instructions guide the reader through each step in how to make a knife. Generously illustrated with photos and drawings on most pages, this book reads like a one-on-one workshop with a thoughtful teacher. The reader is led to discover the spiritual connection between himself and his work, develop his sense of artistry, and to acquire practical skills for self-sufficiency.

Completely self-taught, the author guides the beginning knifemaker through the thinking processes necessary to make a knife; inspires confidence in the reader to begin at his own skill level; and shows how it can be done on a financial shoestring.


Topics covered include tools, setting up a shop, knife design, grinding, heat treating, polishing, sharpening, blade etching, sheathmaking, and more. Boye's outdoor knives, kitchen cutlery, and utility knives are functional and "peace-loving," and the chapter on etching designs into the blades is a visual delight.

With over 150,000 copies in print, Step by Step Knifemaking has deeply moved thousands to involve themselves in this craft, and they constitute a visible portion of today's knifemakers. This book can impel the reader to a personally satisfying, alternative backyard career, making his own useful knife art. It is an enjoyable, indispensable reference for those wanting to learn knifemaking, become more self-reliant, or for anyone with an interest in the ancient craft of blades.

"Handmade knives are unique," writes David Boye, "reflecting the skills and personality of their maker. They impart a personal touch to what would be a cold, impersonal item. Thus it is with a handmade knife, or a handmade article of any kind, that there is a subtle exchange of electromagnetic energy that is transferred from the heart and the hands of the craftsman to the heart of the person who sees and uses the handmade article. Hopefully, the product will be the embodiment and expression of love and beauty in a useful, sanitary, and safe cutting tool - a hint of a deeper, more profound spirit in the process of living."

Excerpts from letters received from readers of Step-by-Step Knifemaking:

I purchased your book on knifemaking some months ago and have read and reread it many times - it has reacted on me like yeast on dough.
- B. H. Wallowa, Oregon

I have since February gone through your book on knifemaking five times and pick up more information with each reading. I find the book very interesting and informative.
- C. M. Kailua, HI

Your book was extremely well written and you should be very proud of this accomplishment. By following your book, I am beginning to understand the art of knifemaking.
- R. M. Howell, N.J.

The reason that I write you this letter is because of the Inspiration your book has given me. Not only was it informative and easy to understand, but I also enjoyed your chapter and words on the philosophy behind making hand made knives and your words on function, beauty, and design.
- K. K. Minneapolis, MN

I have found this book to be one of the most well-written and complete "how-to-do-it" craft books I have read in a very long time. The detail is amazing.
- R. T. W. Roswell, NM

I have spent many any evening pouring over your book in the two years I have owned it. It has been my inspiration to try my own hand at knifemaking. Believe me, I have gotten back the money I paid for it many times over, in the materials I might have wasted were it not for your advice and instruction!!
- R.G.L. Cle Elum, WA

Your book Step-by-Step Knifemaking has answered many questions at times I had no one to ask. Thank you.
- R. S. P. Detroit, MI

I have Step-by-Step Knifemaking and it's the best of my many knifemaking books and I refer to it constantly.
-K. Florence, OR

I've worn out my (copy) years ago, it was the one book that often bailed me out when the others just confused me. Now I need one to send my son, it will pay for itself by eliminating a ton of long distance phone calls.
- R.L.O. Torrance, CA

I wish I'd read your book first - it would have prevented some of my mistakes!
- B.S. Cartersville, GA