Beginning Knife Making

Both aspiring knife-makers and intermediate bladesmiths will benefit from this hands-on class. Students will work through every step that it takes to complete a personal, fixed-blade full tang knife - from profiling and flat grinding the blades, to hardening and tempering the steel, and all the way through finishing with handles and sheathes. Students will be able to choose from several styles. You will finish and take home at least one knife with sheath in this five day class!

The instructor will provide all major tools and materials; however, participants should plan to bring a full cloth apron, safety glasses, leather gloves, and appropriate clothing. This class takes dexterity and willingness to work. As one recent student said, “I didn’t know knifemakers did this much sanding!”

A non-refundable registration fee of $106 is due at the time of registration. The remainder of the class and materials fee ($500) is due to the instructor at the beginning of class. Total cost of class $606. Tom accepts cash or check. This does not include meals or lodging costs.

NOTE: Classes may be canceled at any time due to Covid-19. Please, call (870) 269-3854 prior to traveling to confirm your class. A full refund will be issued if your workshop is canceled.

Lodging is available in the park at The Cabins at Dry Creek, our newly remodeled duplex-style hotel rooms. There is a Folk School discount for students booking more than 3 days. Call the Cabins office at 800-264-3655 to book with the discount. To book rooms for less than three days, click here.

Meet your instructor: Tom Weir

Tom was born in northeastern Arkansas and grew up on a farm in Lawrence County. His daddy’s folks were from the eastern Ozarks. Every Sunday his daddy would load up the kids in the car and say, “We’re going to the hills.” Tom Weir looks like a mountain man, just come in from his cabin on the creek. In fact, he is, in many ways, and that’s the name of his business – On the Creek.