Master the Craft of Knife Making
California's Premier Private Knife Making School — Forge Your Future at AK University in Santa Ana, Orange County One-on-one instruction. Real forges, real steel, real skill. Walk in with curiosity, walk out with a knife you made yourself, from raw steel to finished blade.
Why Train at AK University
AK University is Orange County's premier private knife making school, based in Santa Ana, California. Unlike group workshops, every class here is one-on-one, just you and an experienced instructor, working at your pace, on your goals. Whether you've never touched a forge or you're refining years of bladesmithing skill, your class is built entirely around where you are right now."
Over the course of your session you'll work through the full bladesmithing process: forging steel into shape, grinding a clean profile, heat treating for hardness and durability, and fitting a handle built to last. All tools, materials, and safety equipment are included, you only need to bring yourself and a willingness to get your hands dirty.
Scheduling is flexible around your availability, including evenings and weekends. A $100 deposit reserves your spot and remains valid for up to 12 months, so life's changes never cost you your class.
Knifemaking Experience
Perfect for curious beginners, this one-day class offers a complete introduction to the craft, allowing you to hand-make and take home your first knife.
Knife Making Beginner
tep into the world of knife making with this beginner-friendly course. Discover the fundamentals and create your first functional knife.
Advanced Knife Making
Elevate your bladesmithing skills with this advanced course. Ideal for experienced enthusiasts aiming to refine their craftsmanship and knowledge across all areas of knife making.
Forging
Dive into the art of forging in this comprehensive class that welcomes both beginners and seasoned blacksmiths looking to create hand-forged blades.
Kitchen Cutlery
Craft your own kitchen tools in this three-day course. From knives to specialist utensils, tailor your creations to culinary perfection.
Knifemaking Clinic
Get hands-on experience in this one-day clinic. Ideal for those wanting a quick dive into the essential techniques of knife making.
Demystifying the Craft: Start to Finish Mastery
“I’ve watched plenty of videos, but actually sitting down to go through the entire process from start to finish was exactly what I needed.”
From the Office to the Grinder: Gaining Inspiration Through Craft
“As someone who works in an office all day, I rarely get to work with my hands, but this experience gave me so much inspiration. I really appreciated the one-on-one attention;”
A Unique Date Day That Turned Into a Masterpiece
“I was looking for a unique date day for my husband and found AK University—it was the only place that made this kind of experience possible locally.”