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Comment by Paul J Granger on February 11, 2011 at 11:48

I learned filework by observing a very talented filework artist for about one year. He wasn't teaching me per se, as in giving me lessons. But I would look at his work. I would watch him work sometimes and occasionally he would explain one or two techniques to me. That man is Tom Stratton.

 

He is a Christian, so he is patient, kind and friendly and has a sharing nature. Just the right guy to learn from.  I am a naturally observant person. And my mind is atuned to doing thing physical/mechanical. And I good problem solving skills. So I am pretty good at figuring things out.

 

When I thought I was ready to try, I bought a bunch of American made Schrade Old Timers and just went at it. It is important to mark your layout well before you start filing. I use only hand files. Many people use a Dremmel or other rotary tool. I do all of my file work with only two files: a 1/8" chainsaw file and a japanese feather file (available from Highland Hardwear here:

 http://www.highlandwoodworking.com/search.aspx?find=feather+file )

If you would like to see more filework look at http://www.britishblades.com/forums/showthread.php?55385-Vintage-Sh...  for over 200 pages of vintage knives made in Sheffield, England. Many feature filework.  Also go to http://www.britishblades.com and do a search for Tom Stratton and Stan Shaw for more file work. Or check out Rick Dunkerly at http://dunkerley.ftwebd.com/

Good luck!

Comment by Trent Rock on February 10, 2011 at 17:24

Yes they were

 

How did you learn filework?

A book? trial and error?

Are you naturally artistically inclined?

I want to learn more about file work procedures....

Comment by thomas c stratton on February 10, 2011 at 16:39

good job Paul

Comment by Randy, HHH Knives on February 5, 2010 at 20:31

great looking filework!!