FAQ

Workshop FAQ

 

Do I need any experience to take these workshops?

No experience is required! Both the stock removal and hand-forged knife workshops are beginner-friendly. You’ll be guided through the entire process, with hands-on instruction and all tools provided.

    Can two people work on one knife together?

    Yes! For an additional $100, you and a partner can share the experience and co-create one knife. It’s a great option for couples, friends, or parent-child duos (age 16+).

    How long is each workshop?

    Each course varies from 1 hour ( The taster session), 2-3 hours for the beginner blacksmiths experience, all the way up two full days for the fully immersive premium knife workshops. For the long workshops, your dates don’t need to be consecutive. You can book two available dates that work with your schedule, whether back-to-back or spaced out over separate weeks.

    What’s included in the price?

    • All materials (steel, handle parts, abrasives)
    • Use of shop tools and safety equipment
    • One-on-one guidance and professional instruction
    • A completed knife to take home
    • Coffee, tea, and a welcoming forge environment

    What should I wear or bring?

    • Closed-toe shoes (work boots or leather preferred)
    • Natural fiber clothing (cotton, wool — no synthetics)
    • Water bottle and lunch/snacks
      We provide all safety gear, including gloves, glasses, and aprons.

    Where are the workshops held?

    All workshops are hosted at the Oldboy Metal Co. forge in Toronto, Ontario. Address and parking info are provided upon registration.

    Can I purchase a workshop as a gift?

    Yes, gift certificates are available and make a memorable experience gift. You can purchase a gift card through the workshops menu, under the label "Gift Cards". Any questions, feel free to drop us an email!

    What’s your cancellation or rebooking policy?

    Cancellations made at least 7 days in advance are eligible for a full refund or transfer to another available date. With less notice, we’ll do our best to accommodate a reschedule, but rebooking fees may apply.

    Retirement Axe – For a Jazzman


    Two deep etchings complete the tribute: one of their signature and band name, the other a custom silhouette of them mid-sway, lost in the music, stand-up bass in hand.


    Commissioned to honour a lifetime on stage, this bespoke axe blends rhythm and craft. Built on a solid oak core and wrapped in birdseye sugar maple, its handle echoes the warm, natural tones of a well-loved upright bass—with just a hint of flash, true to the player’s spirit.

    Custom Nakiri Knife


    This Nakiri-style chef’s knife was hand-forged from a recycled farrier’s rasp, giving the blade a one-of-a-kind fish scale texture that nods to a working past. Hidden tang handle in ash, with a sugar maple accent that fades from emerald green to honey.

    Mini Cleaver 1-of-1


    This custom EDC mini cleaver features a gloss-finished handle over layered recycled skateboard veneer—bringing a vivid, one-of-a-kind colour blend to a blade that’s built for daily use and designed to stand out.

    Form Meets Function, Forged in Colour.


    This bespoke, one-of-a-kind axe was commissioned by a skateboard veneer supplier and built to turn heads and hit targets. The handle showcases experimental grip contours and vibrant layered colour from reclaimed board stock—each line telling a story. Up top, the custom head blends a forge-blackened finish with a mirror-polished bevel, making it as striking on the wall as it is in the lane. A true fusion of art, sport, and steel.

    Cleaver-Style Thrower, Forged to Hit.


    This straight-handled cleaver-style axe featured a raw forge finish that keeps it gritty and grounded. Built with a durable hickory core wrapped in sugar maple for a smooth, balanced grip. Designed for consistent throws and brutal beauty.