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Crafting the Perfect Hunting Knife: Brent's New Year Adventure
Brent made a hunting knife using 80 CRV2 steel, Chechen Scales and Brass Pins Make your own Custom Knife at LLForge Hans-on Knife making Experience
Mike Bailey
4 days ago1 min read


Beginner’s Guide to Blacksmithing Classes
Blacksmithing is an ancient craft that combines skill, creativity, and hard work. It’s a hands-on experience that lets you shape metal into useful and beautiful objects. If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at forging, this guide will help you get started with beginner blacksmithing classes. I’ll share what to expect, how to prepare, and why these classes are a great way to learn. What to Expect in Beginner Blacksmithing Classes When you join a beginner blacksmithing class,
Mike Bailey
Dec 15, 20254 min read


Discover the Art of Blacksmithing: A Journey into Craftsmanship
Online Store Order Ready to Ship Why Blacksmithing Matters Blacksmithing is more than just a skill; it's an art form. This ancient craft combines creativity with technical expertise. As I delve into this world, I find joy in shaping metal into functional and beautiful pieces. Each strike of the hammer brings a sense of accomplishment. The Tools of the Trade To start blacksmithing, you need the right tools. Here’s a quick overview: Hammer : A good hammer is essential. It allow
Mike Bailey
Nov 6, 20252 min read


The Joy of Blacksmithing: A Journey with Mark and Jeff
The Art of Blacksmithing Blacksmithing is more than just a craft; it’s a blend of art and skill that has been refined over hundreds of years. This ancient trade involves heating metal until it is soft enough to shape into useful tools or beautiful pieces of art. For Mark and Jeff, blacksmithing fuels their creativity and allows them to develop and refine their crafting skills. To start, the brothers chose railroad spikes, made of high-carbon steel, as their primary material.
Mike Bailey
Nov 5, 20254 min read


Mike Bailey
Nov 3, 20250 min read


Robust Hand-Forged Table Base
Made from 2.5" X 1" and 4" x 1" bar stock. It was an epic challenge to make this piece. The end product is stunning. This was a commissioned piece. I look forward to future challenges and rewards of projects this size and scope.
Mike Bailey
Nov 3, 20251 min read


The Art of Blacksmithing: Crafting a Hand-Forged Table Base
Crafting the Perfect Custom Table Base for Your Home Decor
Mike Bailey
Oct 24, 20252 min read


Forging a Masterpiece: Behind the Scenes of a Custom Damascus Knife Build
Have you ever wondered what goes into crafting a custom knife from raw steel to finished beauty? In this post, I’ll take you behind the scenes at the forge—step by step—to show how a blade is born. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a fellow maker, I hope this gives you insight, inspiration, and respect for the craft.
Mike Bailey
Oct 15, 20252 min read


Explore Blacksmithing Workshops Near You
Blacksmithing is an ancient craft that has fascinated me for years. The idea of shaping metal with fire and hammer feels like stepping back in time. If you want to try your hand at this art, there are many workshops and classes available. These sessions offer hands-on experience and expert guidance. Whether you want to make knives, hooks, or decorative pieces, learning forging skills is rewarding and fun. Why You Should Learn Forging Skills Today Forging is more than just ham
Mike Bailey
Oct 7, 20253 min read


Unveil the Art of Blacksmithing Classes
Blacksmithing is an ancient craft that blends creativity, skill, and strength. It’s more than just shaping metal; it’s about forging a connection to history and craftsmanship. I’ve always been fascinated by the sparks flying and the rhythmic hammering. If you want to dive into this world, blacksmithing classes offer a perfect start. They provide hands-on experience and expert guidance to help you master the craft. Blacksmithing Tools Guide: Essential Gear for Beginners Before
Mike Bailey
Sep 30, 20253 min read


Mastering Hands-On Forging Techniques in Local Workshops
Blacksmithing is an ancient craft that has stood the test of time. It combines skill, strength, and creativity. I’ve found that nothing beats learning this craft hands-on. Local workshops offer the perfect setting to dive into forging. They provide tools, guidance, and a community of like-minded enthusiasts. If you want to master blacksmithing, these workshops are the place to start. Discovering Hands-On Forging Workshops Hands-on forging workshops are designed to teach you t
Mike Bailey
Sep 30, 20254 min read


Discover the Art of Blacksmithing: A Hands-On Experience
Unleash Your Creativity with Forging Blacksmithing is more than just a craft. It’s an ancient art that connects us to our history. In West Michigan, I invite you to explore this fascinating world. Join me for a unique experience where you can create your own masterpiece. The Journey Begins When I first stepped into the forge, I felt a rush of excitement. The heat, the sounds, and the tools all came together to create a magical atmosphere. I knew I was about to embark on a jou
Mike Bailey
Sep 25, 20252 min read


Constructing a Heavy Duty Table Base: Overcoming Epic Challenges with Bar Stock
Creating a Heavy-Duty Table Base: A Blacksmith's Guide ======================================================= Building a heavy-duty...
Mike Bailey
Sep 7, 20253 min read


Another Raindrop Damasus Chef's Knife Ready to Ship.
Raindrop Damascus Chef's Knife with Stabilized Walnut Scales and Nickel/Silver Pins All Raindrop Damascus Chef's Knives come with a Kydex...
Mike Bailey
Sep 3, 20251 min read


Raindrop Damascus Chef's Knife in the Works!
Just finished 120 layer Billet with 15N20,1084,and 80CRV2 steel. Holes are drilled, ready to get back to the forge. This is a Custom...
Mike Bailey
Aug 27, 20251 min read


Discover the Best Blacksmithing Classes Nearby
Blacksmithing is an ancient craft that combines art, skill, and metalwork to create beautiful and functional items. Whether you want to...
Mike Bailey
Aug 25, 20254 min read


New Feather Damascus Hunter with Kydex Sheath Ready to Ship!
15N20 and 1084 Steel with Jimping, G10 Scales , Micarta Pins Purchase at https://www.llforge.com/online-store/Damascus-Hunter-p734586820...
Mike Bailey
Aug 12, 20251 min read


Hand-Hammered Calla Lily Ready to Ship! Buy online at https://www.llforge.com/online-store/Copper-Calla-Lilly-p436284640 or make your own by booking LLForge "Hand Hammered Calla Lily" experience.
Hand-Hammered Calla Lily ordered from lLForge Shop, ready to ship. You can also make your own Calla Lily by booking my "Hand-Hammer a...
Mike Bailey
Aug 3, 20251 min read


First Friction Folder ready to ship out. Feather Damascus with Canary Wood.
First Friction Folder, Feather Damascus, with U of M Logo Laser Engraved, and Belt Hook. Feather Damascus Friction Folder with Belt Hook
Mike Bailey
Jul 25, 20251 min read


"From Billet to Blade". Starting with two pieces of 48" long bar stock, 15N20 and 1084 steel Todd forged a billet into 120layer Damascus Knife.
Me, (Mike Bailey) and Todd with his just, hand-forged Damascus knife. Todd started with two pieces of bar stock 48"long, one 15N20 and...
Mike Bailey
Jul 19, 20251 min read


Custom Made RR Spike Knife & Kabar Style Hunter with hand-made leather sheaths ready to ship. Available at my online store.
Kabar Style Hunting Knife with Hand-Made Leather Sheath & Railroad Spike Knife with a Simple Twist Handle and Hand-Made Leather Sheath...
Mike Bailey
Jul 11, 20252 min read


Jett, making his first Damascus knife at LLForge "From Billet to Blade" knife-making experience.
You can make your own Damascus knife! Start with two lengths of 1084 and 15N20 bar stock and forge weld a Damascus billet that will be...
Mike Bailey
Jun 7, 20251 min read


The Beauty of Handcrafted Knives
The Art of Knife Making Knife making is a blend of art and skill. Each blade tells a story, showcasing its creator's craftsmanship....
Mike Bailey
May 17, 20252 min read


Explore Unique Forge and Knife-Making Workshops Choose from Six Immersive Hands-On Experiences.
Visit https://www.llforge.com/learn-to-forge
Mike Bailey
May 13, 20251 min read


Mike Bailey
Mar 19, 20250 min read


Mick and I worked together to create a stunning Fireplace Set showcasing #Founders Brewing, #Bells Brewing, and #Avery Brewing Tap Handles.
#Founders Brewing, #Bells Brewing, #Avery Brewing Hand Forged Fireplace Set showcasing Founders, Bell's and Avery Brewing Tap Handles
Mike Bailey
Feb 6, 20251 min read


Custom ordered Damascus Hunter with Kydex Sheath, ready for pickup.
Low Layer Damascus with G10 Scales and Kydex Sheath
Mike Bailey
Jan 31, 20251 min read


Raindrops Keep Falling.....from my Forge. New custom order Raindrop Damascus with African Blackwood Scales and Brass Pins.
Raindrop Damascus Chef's Knife The customer wanted a Raindrop Damascus Paring Knife to go along with this stunning Chef's Knife. I have...
Mike Bailey
Jan 13, 20251 min read


Jake and his son Jordie make a Damascus Cleaver!
Jake & his son Jordie
Mike Bailey
Jan 12, 20251 min read


Starting off the New Year with a beautifully crafted Cleaver with a custom made leather sheath. Check ot the custom pins in the handle!
TJ working on a leather sheath for the Cleaver he just made TJ made this Cleaver at LLForge's "Create a Custom Knife" experience The...
Mike Bailey
Jan 5, 20251 min read


Happy New Year! Wishing everyone 2025 to be the best year ever. Now's the time to try something new and exciting. Book one of LLForge's six hands-on Forge Experiences. Make this the best year ever
As we welcome 2025, excitement fills the air. A new year brings new possibilities—a chance to set fresh goals and explore opportunities...
Mike Bailey
Jan 1, 20252 min read


"Create a Custom Knife" at LLForge! Gary's wife gifted him a Knife Making Experience for Christmas.
Gary with the knife and leather sheath he just made. Gary and I dedicated the day to crafting his custom hunting knife and leather...
Mike Bailey
Dec 26, 20241 min read


Custom made Damscus Chef's Knife and Paring Knife. Made with a vintage heirloom leaf spring and 15N20.
Made from a leaf Spring and 15N20 steel, with G-10 rubber scles and nickel pins. Kydex sheaths help protect this kitchen knife set. If...
Mike Bailey
Dec 22, 20243 min read


Unraveling the Enigma: The Untold History of the Revolutionary War Rifleman's Knife
The Revolutionary War marked a defining period in American history, not just in terms of politics but also with respect to the tools that...
Mike Bailey
Dec 2, 20243 min read


Finishing up a custom made Raindrop Damascus Chef's Knife with Bloodwood scales and Brass Pins
I will make a Kydex sheath and sharpen before shipping.
Mike Bailey
Dec 1, 20241 min read


Unleashing the Magic: The Unprecedented Family Knife-Making Journey at LLForge - A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience!
Have you ever imagined forging a strong bond with your loved ones while crafting something special together? At LLForge, families can...
Mike Bailey
Nov 15, 20244 min read


Unforgettable Adventures: Exploring Hidden Gems and Unseen Wonders in Connecticut and New York City
Kathy and I embarked on an unforgettable adventure through Connecticut and New York City. We discovered both the famous landmarks and the...
Mike Bailey
Oct 24, 20244 min read


Mike Bailey
Oct 13, 20240 min read


A day at Lewis Farms with daughter and grand kids. Isla and Miles, aka, (Mr. Chubbers) had fun feeding the goats and playing in the Corny Barn.
Picture perfect memories of a fun family day at Lewis Farms! Isla’s eyes gleamed with excitement as she clutched onto her favorite toy,...
Mike Bailey
Oct 9, 20242 min read


Crafting a Modern Aesthetic: Elevating Cabinet Pulls with Contemporary Blacksmithing Techniques
As we continue to seek out ways to infuse elements of innovation and contemporary design into every aspect of our homes, the realm of...
Mike Bailey
Oct 1, 20243 min read


Available now! Visit https://www.llforge.com/online-store/Fixed-Blade-Pocket-Knife-p274238912
Fixed blade pocket knife, 80CRV2 steel, black paper micarta scales with brass/nickel .25" decorative "Dragon Pin" as a centerpiece. The...
Mike Bailey
Sep 24, 20241 min read


Brian made a stunning Railroad Spike Knife at the Forge today. With a Pineapple twist handle and hand-stitched leather sheath with a rich Oxblood dye.
Forge your own Railroad Spike Knife. Visit www.llforge.com/learn-to-forge and click on the "Forge a Railroad Spike Knife" title to...
Mike Bailey
Sep 17, 20241 min read


New Fall Project Knife!
Kabar Style Hunter Available soon at www.llforge.com/online-store Made from 80CRV2 with stacked leather handle and Kabar guard and pommel
Mike Bailey
Sep 14, 20241 min read


New Neon Sign for the Forge
New Sign for the Forge
Mike Bailey
Sep 14, 20240 min read


Integral handle Damascus Chef's Knife made at LLForge's "From Billet to Blade" experience.
Make your custom Damascus blade. Visit www.llforge.com/learn-to-forge Click on "From Billet to Blade to learn more and book.
Mike Bailey
Aug 18, 20241 min read


Dave with his custom-made knife and sheath. Dave made this beautiful camp knife from 1084 steel with brass and nickel pins and Honduran Rosewood scales.
This knife was made at LLForge's "Create a Custom Knife experience. Choose from knife blanks including Chef's knives, Skinners, Hunting,...
Mike Bailey
Aug 15, 20241 min read


Another beautiful Damascus Chef's Knife made by Matt at LLForge's "From Billet to Blade" experience.
Matt made this beautiful 90-layer random pattern Damascus Chef's Knife with Bronze Acrylester scales at LLForge's Damascus knife-making...
Mike Bailey
Aug 9, 20241 min read


#Cool Blades #Unique Damascus Blades, #
This is a custom-made random pattern Damascus blade with brass guard and butt piece, and Cocobolo handle. We're unsure what to call it...
Mike Bailey
Jul 28, 20241 min read


Tegan & Grandpa forge a wall hook!
Tegan and his Grandpa worked together to make a hand-forged wall hook at LLForge's "Learn-to-Forge" experience. Book your memorable...
Mike Bailey
Jul 6, 20241 min read
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