The first sword I built - a crude and unrefined instrument - was made on not much more than a whim and a bet with myself.
And though both the process and product may have evolved since then, the heart of each sword shares in that of its origin.
A full tang blade, tenoned tight through a crossguard and pommel, with leather wrapped at the grip.
Requests for custom pieces have taken me across Europe, China, and the Middle East, but I wish to go even further. This vast world and its fascinating history inspire me to one day have in my armory a piece from nearly every nation and era.
And so I welcome you to this basement project of a childhood infatuation with the many designs and sciences the of the old world and its armories.
Thank you for joining me on a strange road, at a crossing of craft, study, and play.
I had a feeling you'd ask ;)
The best answer I've been able to
come to so far is: I simply connect
to this material.
The feel, the smell, even the sound
wood makes when it's struck.
Every piece of lumber has a face that speaks of its character, and the grain tells a story that manufactured media often cannot.
Wood also stands at a midway point between a hard and a soft material.
Though it is rigid, it can be sculpted, and from it can be crafted things of function
but also of art.
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How it feels to the touch when sanded "smooz" (as my dad would say);
the way it shines and breaks light at the edges of its geometry when held in the sun;
the way a well finished piece can burst with colour and warmth.
It is a pleasure for the eye but also for the hand.