The annual Bloemfontein Knife Show at Bobbies Park may not be the biggest, but it’s undoubtedly one of the most anticipated events on the knifemaking calendar. Hosted by the Bloemfontein Knife Makers Club, the two-day showcase brings together makers, collectors, suppliers, and fans from across South Africa and beyond. 

It’s more than just an exhibition of sharp steel – it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, creativity, and passion.

Jean Wilke moving hot steel during a forging demonstration. Photo: Morgan Piek

Knife making is often described as a “dark art” – a blend of precision, patience, and imagination. 

From elegant kitchen blades to rugged hunting knives, each piece on display tells a story of hours at the forge and countless refinements at the grinder.

Among this year’s standout local talents is William Smith, a Bloemfontein-based artist who transforms blades into one-of-a-kind masterpieces. 

A trained graphic designer and goldsmith, Smith pushes the boundaries of the craft by adding checkered rifle-style handles and gemstones to his creations.

“Knife making is the ideal art form,” says Smith. “Every decision – from the steel pattern and blade grind to handle materials like carbon fibre, ivory, or wood – is a creative act. 

“Unlike painting or ceramics, knife making is three-dimensional and limitless. There’s always something new to explore.”

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He credits South Africa’s top masters – Henning Wilkinson, Kevin and Heather Harvey, and Neels van den Berg – as constant sources of inspiration. 

Van den Berg, one of the few master smiths in the country, will be among those attending the show, along with Jean Wilke, a dynamic young smith who will once again demonstrate live forging – an unmissable spectacle of fire, focus, and skill.

The Bloemfontein Knife Show takes place on 31 October and 1 November at Bobbies Park.

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OFM News/Morgan Piek cvs