Live Knife Making Demonstration

Get an exclusive insight into the making of a knife blade. Step into the forge at Kelham Island Museum with expert bladesmith Simon Maillet where you will see up close how he forges a blade for a kitchen knife with fire, anvil and hammer.

He will introduce you to the tools he uses, and the techniques, posture and stance required to forge by hand, from the rough shape of a steel bar to a thin cutting edge.

Please note that this is a small group session in a functioning workshop with a lit forge. As such it is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible.

Sessions run 10.30am – 12pm and 2 – 3.30pm

Simon Maillet makes high quality kitchen knives, working to his own original designs. The Sheffield-based bladesmith forges each of his knives individually, using locally sourced carbon steel and wood. The durability of the carbon steel means owners can keep their knife for life. Using just a hammer and anvil, he maintains an elegant yet minimal aesthetic, emphasising the functionality of his product. His knives are first and foremost tools, not decorative pieces. He wants to see them used and maintained over long periods of time.

Kelham Island Museum
Alma Street
Sheffield
S3 8SA