04 Jun Higonakami – The Japanese Folding Knife, Interview with Robert Burns
Robert Burns is one of those genuinely talented individuals that we are lucky to have come and teach for us at the Folk School. Forging since he was thirteen and named one of the Metal Museums (Memphis, TN) top metalworkers under 40 in 2019. He brings soul to the functional work he creates under his business Wilderness Ironworks.
We’re excited to have Robert return to teach the weeklong class, “Higonakami – The Japanese Folding Knife,” from September 29- October 4, 2024. Folks will enjoy creating this mid 1800’s blade with a twist while learning basic Damascus, and file embellishments throughout the week.
Read more about Robert Burns and his class in our interview below! Also check out his website wildernessironworks.orgto see more of what beautiful pieces of functional work he creates! Interested in his class? Register today to secure your spot.
JCCFS: Tell us more about your upcoming weeklong blacksmithing class, “Higonakami – The Japanese Folding Knife” from September 29- October 4. It’s for all levels, correct?
RB: This class will not only teach you how to make a knife, but it will teach you how to look at the craft and understand design as well as the intersection of craft and functionality.
The higonakami is the quintessential folding knife of Japan, its use dating back to the mid 1800s. We will learn to make this iconic knife with a modern twist. In addition to the blade and handle, you will learn to make basic damascus patterns for blade stock and add carved and file work embellishments to the handle. All levels of blacksmiths welcome!
JCCFS: What can students expect to leave with?
RB: An appreciation for the forged blade and a useful tool that will last them a lifetime. Students will leave with a huge number of new skills and increased knowledge of the craft regardless of skill level.
JCCFS: Where do you draw inspiration from for your work?
RB: I draw my inspiration from history, cultures, and nature. Humanity has faced the same problems throughout history and I like to explore the differences in their solutions throughout time and place.
JCCFS: What is your favorite aspect of the John C. Campbell Folk School?
RB: I love the community and engaging with other instructors and students, getting to know everyone is an integral part of why I love John C. Campbell.
Quotes from Robert’s previous Higonakami class
Anthony Perrone from our Marketing department was in Robert’s Higonakami class last year, watch his reel and how he documented each day!
Upcoming Class with Robert
Higonakami – The Japanese Folding Knife
September 29th – October 4th, 2024
The higonakami is the quintessential folding knife of Japan, its use dating back to the mid 1800s. Come make this iconic knife with a modern twist. In addition to the blade and handle, learn to make basic damascus patterns for blade stock and add carved and file work embellishments to the handle. All levels welcome; some previous blacksmith experience recommended.
About Robert Burns
Robert Burns started learning to forge under the direction of Jymm Hoffman at the age of thirteen. He took courses from Jymm in the American style of ornamental ironwork until the age of seventeen. Robert then began to teach himself knifemaking/blade smithing and opened his business, Wilderness Ironworks. at the age of eighteen. He pursued his business full-time for the next ten years, specializing in forging damascus, historic reproductions, and custom art knives/axes. Robert has had his work featured in “Blade Magazine,” “Knives,” “Knives Illustrated,” “Knives-The Best in Handmade Knives,” “Sur le Tableau,” and at the Metals Museum.
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