Hey, my name is Troy and I was referred here by a guy named Steve. Sent him an email asking some general bladesmith questions because I found his website and was very impressed with the quality of work he has done.

I live in the Phoenix east valley right now. As of right now, I am solely interested in knifemaking. First knife was finished today, stock removal method (waiting on my anvil) and I was very impressed. Took a lot of advice off the forum, finally registered today to be one of those "here's my first knife" guys.

Got a brakedrum forge in my backyard. My motivation to begin this craft was to be more self reliant, would be a nice skill to have if the SHTF.

Thing that made my blacksmithing hobbe easier was that I got a cordless drill today, other than that NO power tools, borrowed my neighbors to drill holes in the handle before I hardened the blade of my first knife.

Thing I want to learn most is how to make damascus knives, seen some crazy patterns, have no idea where to start.

Welcome to the forum.

Feel free to post some of your work.

I have certainly learned a lot here.

Good luck on your blades.

Welcome to I Forge Iron, glad you decided to join in

I'd say that you're starting exactly where you should: by learning to make simple monosteel blades. Once you have an anvil, start learning to forge monosteel blades, and to make simple forge welds. Then maybe try a little san mai. In the meantime, you can be reading up on pattern welding.

Welcome to IFI!

I'd say by starting to learn grinding and knife design. I've know a couple of folks whose pattern welding skills are GREAT but their product is totally wasted by their lack of knifemaking skills.

Next learn to forge: hammer control, temperature control for various alloys, etc.

Then hook up with someone who can coach you through your first billet or two---it's a heck of a lot easier to learn in person than by net or book!

Thomas makes a good point. I am so used to muddling through on my own that I rarely think to recommend finding someone who can coach you through a process. But if you have that opportunity, by all means take it!

Can't wait to see some blades! But, don't be afraid to try other things as well. I know the satisfaction of making your own cooking utensils or hooks, and I can imagine you've felt the same about your knives.

Hey Troy...I'm new as well. I'm in Eastern Canada. I have built a couple forges and weld in my gas forge. I have made some patterned steel that has turned out awesome. Also have to admit my many failures first. My biggest mistake was not being patient and hitting too hard. I have made a couple sweet knives from 01 tool steel and 15N20. The contrast is beautiful. I bought the 15N20 from Ray Kirk at Ray Kirk Knives. He was also quite helpful. Cheers and good luck on your first welds!