With roots in traditional western blacksmithing as well as Japanese bladesmithing, metalwork, and design, Crossed Heart Forge is a small creative agency focused on hand forged knives, handmade metal buttons, and the ancient practice of d.i.y. In the shadow of Mt. Arrowsmith, deep in a forest clearing, away from … Read more With roots in traditional western blacksmithing as well as Japanese bladesmithing, metalwork, and design, Crossed Heart Forge is a small creative agency focused on hand forged knives, handmade metal buttons, and the ancient practice of d.i.y.

In the shadow of Mt. Arrowsmith, deep in a forest clearing, away from the things of man, there is a place where blades are born of earth, and air, and fire.

Trained as a blacksmith in Amish country, Dave has been making knives since 1990. His work brings together a fusion of cultural and artistic styles from his experiences in Asia, North America, and Africa.

While the style of his ornamental ironwork is rooted in the western blacksmithing tradition, his bladesmithing methods and designs draw heavily on the Japanese tradition. Clean, simple lines, natural materials, and beauty found from within function are characteristics of his work.

Highlighting the potential for transformation in discarded objects, most of his raw material is reclaimed from sources such as worn out tools, farm machinery, and sawmill equipment. Even the softwood charcoal that fuels the forge is hand made in small batches from scrap wood.

Working from his studio in central Vancouver Island, Dave hand forges high carbon steel into blades, clay tempering them with the Japanese process. Mounting the finished blades using time tested methods, he collaborates with local woodworkers to create art knives that are often spoken for before they are even finished. info@islandblacksmith.ca

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"A Canadian blacksmith on a journey of research, understanding, and practice in implementing elements of traditional Japanese design and craftsmanship in his work."

"An old soul in a young craftsman's body, so few eschew the conveniences of modern workshops in pursuit of such a fusion of traditional arts and reclaimed materials."

"They still make their own charcoal by hand! That pretty much says it all."