Sankel Knives

My name is Peter Sankel, I am a 16-year-old homeschooler who has been making all sorts of things consistently for four years now.

I first began with leatherworking. Inspired by the armor and accessories made for historical reenactment, I first began with wallets and belts, then moved to armor, purchasing more tools and increasing the complexity of my projects. I've since completed many different works, including hand bound books, masks, and sheaths.

I came to knifemaking after seeing the reality TV show "Forged in Fire", and after being shown how accessible it was through YouTube, I made my first knife in the summer of 2022. In terms of what experience I have with knifemaking, I've made kitchen knives, EDCs (everyday carry knives), bowies, camping knives, and other miscellaneous cutting tools.

I've since expanded my shop a few times, purchasing better quality equipment and gaining experience.

Nowadays, in addition to improving my bladesmithing and leatherworking, I've been expanding my skill set by learning hand engraving, chasing and repousse, as well as starting to work with damascus steel. I strive to both improve the quality of my work, as well as increase its visual appeal and complexity.

Here at Sankel Knives I hope you will enjoy seeing my past projects, and if you are interested in commisioning a custom piece for yourself, you can find more information here.

Ni-mai (two layered) traditional Japanese kiridashi

High Carbon Steel and Knife Care

Currently, I am only selling high carbon steel knives. This means that they are going to develop a patina, and will rust easier than stainless steel. Fortunately, with proper care and just a little time, rusting can be easily avoided. Here are some things to remember:

Only hand wash the knife (using the dishwasher will harm the blade's edge and the handle material, as well as rust the knife).
Do not leave the knife wet after using it, wash it right away.
Dry the knife with a towel after washing it, don't just let it air dry.
Every few months, put a new coating of wax on your blade.

You'll notice after some kitchen use that your knife will develop what is called a patina. A patina is a good type of oxidation which does not cause any harm. It can look like splotches of color or grey, and are completey normal, and even in some cases sought after in a carbon steel knife.

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