Care and Maintenance for your custom knife

Basic Knife Care

Cleaning Your Knife

  • Wash Immediately After Use: Clean your knife with warm water and mild soap right after use to remove food particles, moisture, and oils. Avoid putting your knife in the dishwasher, as this can damage the blade and handle.

  • Dry Properly: After washing, dry your knife thoroughly with a soft towel to prevent rust and corrosion.

  • Avoid Soaking: Do not leave knives submerged in water for extended periods, as this can cause rust and affect the handle.

Storage

  • Knife Blocks: A knife block keeps your blades protected from contact with other surfaces. Choose a block with slots that fit the size of your knives properly.

  • Magnetic Strips: Magnetic strips are a great space-saving solution and prevent accidental damage.

  • Knife Sheaths: For knives not stored in a block or on a strip, using a sheath can protect both the blade and the person handling it.

  • Avoid Drawer Storage: Storing knives loosely in a drawer can dull the edges and increase the risk of accidents.

Sharpening Your Knife

When to Sharpen

  • A knife doesn’t need to be sharpened after every use, but when it feels dull or you notice resistance while cutting, it’s time to sharpen. Common signs include difficulty cutting through foods like tomatoes or meat, or if the blade doesn’t glide easily.

Sharpening Methods

  • Whetstones: Use a whetstone for a precise, controlled sharpening. Choose a stone with a grit level suited for your knife's condition.

    • Coarse Grit (200-400): For repairing or reshaping damaged blades.

    • Medium Grit (800-1000): For general sharpening.

    • Fine Grit (3000-8000): For polishing and refining the edge.

  • Honing Rods: Regular honing with a steel rod (not sharpening) can realign the blade edge and help maintain sharpness between sharpening sessions.

  • Electric Sharpeners: While convenient, they may not offer the fine control needed for custom knives. Avoid using pull through sharpeners as this will damage the edge of your blade.

Sharpening Technique

  • Hold the knife at the correct angle (typically 20 degrees for most knives) while sharpening.

  • Gently draw the blade across the stone from heel to tip, alternating sides, and maintaining consistent pressure.

  • After sharpening, wipe off the blade and check for smoothness and sharpness.

Preventing Rust and Corrosion

Blade Care

  • Keep It Dry: After cleaning, ensure the blade is thoroughly dry to prevent water spots, rust, and corrosion. If you live in a humid climate, it may help to dry the knife immediately after use and storage.

  • Oiling: A thin layer of food-safe mineral oil or camellia oil can protect carbon steel blades. Apply a few drops on a soft cloth and wipe the blade evenly.

Handle Care

  • Wooden Handles: If your knife has a wooden handle, oil it regularly with food-safe mineral oil or beeswax. This helps to prevent the wood from drying out or cracking.

  • Avoid Excessive Moisture: Wooden handles should be kept dry and should never be soaked in water, as prolonged exposure to moisture can damage the wood.

Honing and Maintaining the Edge

Why Honing is Important

  • Honing doesn’t sharpen a knife, but it helps maintain its edge by realigning the microscopic teeth of the blade. Regular honing can extend the time between sharpenings and preserve the sharpness of your knife.

How to Hone

  • Hold the honing rod vertically and position the knife at a 20-degree angle.

  • Gently glide the knife down the rod, alternating sides, and repeat 5-10 times per side.

  • Make sure to apply light pressure, as excessive force can damage the blade.

Maintaining Your Knife Over Time

Inspect Regularly

  • Check for any loose or cracked handles, signs of rust, or any issues that could affect the safety or performance of the knife. If you spot any problems, address them promptly before they worsen.

Annual Professional Maintenance

  • Even if you’re maintaining your knife regularly, it’s beneficial to have it professionally sharpened and inspected once a year for optimal performance.

Proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the functionality and beauty of your custom hand-forged knife. By cleaning it regularly, honing it, and sharpening it when necessary, you’ll ensure that your blade performs beautifully for years to come. A little attention to detail can make a big difference in the longevity and performance of your prized knife.