Class Overview

Create your very own straight bladed carving knife under the expert guidance of Squamish Nation carver and tool maker Matthew Cole. Participants will make and hone the blade in the metal shop from steel. Next comes the handle, which you will make from yellow cedar. The final step is to assemble the two components together and put the finishing touches on your bespoke carving knife. This tool is the foundation of any wood carvers tool box and will be a treasured possession that can be passed down through generations. Matthew is a Capilano-based artist and blade smith known for his traditional carvings, native drawings, and other artworks, including paddles and masks.

The following workshop in this series is wood relief carving - a perfect opportunity to gain skills with your freshly minted carving knife.

What You’ll Learn

• How to shape, heat-treat, and hone a carving blade from steel

• How to craft and fit a yellow cedar handle

• How to assemble and finish your custom carving knife

• Safe use of metalworking and woodworking tools

• Foundational knowledge of traditional carving tools and their purpose

What’s Included

• All materials and equipment needed

• Hands-on instruction

what to bring + Personal Safety

Closed-toe shoes required

Avoid loose clothing and tie back long hair

Safety glasses and dust masks provided (bring your own if preferred)

Notebook & pencil (optional for notes)