J. Doyle
Dealer - Purveyor
I just wanted to share a few quick observations about filework. This is my opinion, but I know it is an opinion shared by many top-tier makers and seasoned collectors alike so it is worth repeating.
Filework is an embellishment and it should ADD to a knife's flow and visual appeal, not detract or distract. It shouldn't be gaudy or over the top.
Filework should never be done 'just because' or 'because I had some open space to fill'. It should be purposeful and always well done.
I don't believe there is such a thing as 'okay' filework........its either good, or it isn't.
Filework is a SKILLSET that is used to compliment an ALREADY SOUND knifemaking foundation. Good filework will not enhance or save a poorly made knife. And bad filework will only make a poorly finished knife worse.
If a maker doesn't have a good sound grasp of nice flow, proportions, good general visual appeal, even/clean grinds, good pin/screw placement and immaculate blade/wood/handle finishes.........filework is the last thing he/she should be concerned about.
So.....if you're going to do filework, ask yourself "do I have the basics down?" and "does the filework compliment this knife?" And if you proceed with filework.....ask yourself "does it look GOOD?"........because if not, that only leaves one other choice.
The above was just a general observation that is a good reminder from time to time. It is in no way pointed at anyone in particular.
Filework is an embellishment and it should ADD to a knife's flow and visual appeal, not detract or distract. It shouldn't be gaudy or over the top.
Filework should never be done 'just because' or 'because I had some open space to fill'. It should be purposeful and always well done.
I don't believe there is such a thing as 'okay' filework........its either good, or it isn't.
Filework is a SKILLSET that is used to compliment an ALREADY SOUND knifemaking foundation. Good filework will not enhance or save a poorly made knife. And bad filework will only make a poorly finished knife worse.
If a maker doesn't have a good sound grasp of nice flow, proportions, good general visual appeal, even/clean grinds, good pin/screw placement and immaculate blade/wood/handle finishes.........filework is the last thing he/she should be concerned about.
So.....if you're going to do filework, ask yourself "do I have the basics down?" and "does the filework compliment this knife?" And if you proceed with filework.....ask yourself "does it look GOOD?"........because if not, that only leaves one other choice.
The above was just a general observation that is a good reminder from time to time. It is in no way pointed at anyone in particular.