Knife Making Course Overview
In this course, we will take you on a journey to make a traditional Finnish puukko. You will be guided through the entire process,from forging and finishing the blade to crafting the handle and creating the sheath.
This 5-hour tutorial requires only the most basic tools and materials. The idea is to teach a process that enabled the nomads of the North to create their most essential tool in an effective yet simple way.
This course is suitable for beginner and intermediate bladesmiths who are interested in learning the craft from the ground up and diving into the more traditional and intuitive processes of knife making.
What's included
You will receive access to the online course, as well as access to an exclusive Facebook group. In this group, you can get support directly from the tutor, connect with other participants, and share your projects and ideas with fellow students of the course.
The course is divided into eight parts, guiding you through every stage of making the knife:
PART I - Intro Information to the most important needed tools for the job and introduction to our project:
PART II - Forging of the blade. Selection of materials, Forging techniques
PART III - Shaping of the Blade. Scribing and File work
PART IV - The heat treatment.
PART V - Finishing the blade. Sanding and acid treatment
PART VI - Handle making. Selection and sourcing of Materials, preparation of materials, Fitting, Shaping and finishing.
PART VII - Making of the Sheath. Choosing of materials, Wooden core making, Fitting and shaping the leather. Stitching and finishing.
PART VIII - Outro. Some Final thoughts
Meet the tutor
Sören Uhlmann (1993)
From an early age, his fascination with mythology sparked a lifelong interest in ancient craft. Particularly blacksmithing, a discipline often portrayed in legend as intertwined with magic and divine power.
At 13, he began training in historical martial arts and later co-founded a fencing school in Dresden. By 16, he had entered a 3.5 year apprenticeship in architectural blacksmithing with a focus on restoration, working on significant heritage projects involving historic churches and castles throughout Dresden. He completed his apprenticeship in 2013.
That same year marked the beginning of a seven year journey around the world as a traveling blacksmith. Working in over 20 workshops across different countries, he specialized in forging tools and swords, deepening his understanding of global metalworking traditions.
In 2020, he joined the Northmen Guild.
Today, he leads blacksmithing courses at the guild and crafts custom blades and swords of his own design—each rooted in his passion for history, craftsmanship, and the enduring legends that first inspired his journey.
We are looking forward to seeing the projects you create and following your journey in this craft. The path is long, but this course will give you the tools and knowledge needed to feel more confident experimenting with and understanding the process.
Teach the young! Honor the elders!
More information & questions - courses@northmen.com