OUR CLASSES

AKU classes are private and in-person courses designed to give each student the best opportunity to learn and practice throughout the course; therefore, each course is limited to no more than one student. This allows you to learn and practice the techniques while maximizing your time to learn the new craft. The cost of $550 per day includes materials based on the projects. A $100 non-refundable deposit is required upon registration, which will be applied to the class tuition when the balance is paid in full. If you need to cancel, you can use the deposit amount for up to 12 months from the registration date.

  •

    School Of
    Knifemaking Experience

    $500.00
    1 Day Class…

    1 Day Class

    Welcome to our "Knife Making Experience" Class! Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary journey into the captivating art of knife making? This one-day class is thoughtfully designed for beginners who have always been fascinated by knives and their craftsmanship. No prior experience is required; all you need is enthusiasm and a passion for creating.

    Course Highlights:

    1. Discover the Art of Knife Making: Experience the thrill of creating your very own knife in our "Knife Making Experience" class. Our skilled instructors will provide expert guidance throughout the process, ensuring you have a rewarding and successful experience.
    2. Pre-ground & Heat-treated Blades: Begin your journey with pre-ground and heat-treated existing blades, allowing you to focus on the critical elements of knife making without the need for extensive forging. This approach provides a perfect balance of simplicity and creativity for beginners.
    3. Final Grinding & Finishing Touches: Learn the art of final grinding to achieve the desired shape and edge for your knife. Add those finishing touches that will elevate your knife from a functional tool to a work of art.
    4. Handle Construction & Contouring: Discover the nuances of handle construction and contouring. Craft a handle that not only complements your blade aesthetically but also ensures a comfortable grip for optimal usage.
    5. Seamless Background & Flatlay: Master the art of capturing stunning photographs of your finished knife with seamless background and flatlay techniques. Showcase your creation like a true artisan.
    6. Sharpening Techniques: Hone your sharpening techniques to perfection, ensuring your knife is not only visually appealing but also razor-sharp and ready for use.
    Whether you are a complete novice or have some prior experience, our compact one-day course offers a comprehensive overview of the knife-making process. Should you discover a passion for this captivating craft, we are more than happy to arrange additional classes tailored to your skill level. Join us now and unlock the rewarding world of knife-making in a supportive and creative environment. Embrace the satisfaction of creating a functional and beautiful knife with your own hands, and let this class be the starting point of a lifelong journey into the art of bladesmithing!
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  • School Of
    KNIFE-MAKING (Beginner)

    $800.00
    2 Day Class…

    2 Day Class

    Welcome to our Knife-Making Beginner Course! Are you ready to embark on an extraordinary journey into the captivating art of knife making? This course is thoughtfully designed for individuals with little to no prior experience in this time-honored craft. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a culinary adventurer, or simply curious about the art of bladesmithing, our program offers the perfect gateway to explore the world of knife making.

    Course Highlights:

    1. Discover the Art of Knife Design & Geometry: Unleash your creativity as we delve into the fascinating world of knife design and geometry. Learn the principles behind crafting a well-balanced and aesthetically pleasing blade, perfectly tailored to your preferences.
    2. Master the Essential Tools & Materials: Our expert instructors will introduce you to the core tools and materials used in knife making. Gain hands-on experience and understand the significance of each element in the creation process.
    3. Shape Your Vision through Prototyping & Profiling: Watch your ideas take form as you delve into the prototyping and profiling stages of knife making. Refine your design and bring it to life under the guidance of our seasoned instructors.
    4. Elevate Your Craftsmanship with Grinding Techniques: Discover the art of precision grinding, an essential skill in achieving the desired blade shape and edge. Our instructors will help you master this technique to perfection.
    5. Unveil the Secrets of Heat Treatment & Tempering: Experience the transformative process of heat treatment and tempering as raw steel becomes a durable, reliable blade with excellent edge retention. Delve into the science behind this critical aspect of knife making.
    6. Craft a Custom Handle: Create a handle that complements your blade both aesthetically and ergonomically. Explore various materials and techniques to fashion a comfortable grip for your knife.
    7. Master the Art of Machine Sharpening: Learn the techniques to maintain a razor-sharp edge for your knife, ensuring it remains a reliable tool throughout its lifetime.

    Knife Details:

    • Overall Blade Size: Up to 8 inches
    • Knife Type: Outdoor or Kitchen Utility Knife
    By the end of this enriching course, you will not only take home a fully finished knife crafted by your hands but also a set of invaluable skills and experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime. Whether you aim to pursue knife making as a hobby or unleash your creativity in crafting unique blades, this course is the perfect foundation to fulfill your aspirations. Join us today and let the art of knife-making awaken the artisan within you!
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  • School Of
    KNIFE-MAKING (Advanced)

    $1,000.00
    2 Day Class…

    2 Day Class

    Welcome to our Knife-Making Advanced Course! Are you an experienced bladesmith looking to elevate your skills to new heights? This course is tailor-made for enthusiasts like you, providing an opportunity to advance your knowledge and craftsmanship in all areas of knife making. Whether you're aspiring to create intricate art knives or seeking to refine your techniques for future designs, our experienced instructors will guide you on this immersive journey.

    Course Highlights:

    1. Master the Art of Knife Design & Construction: Unlock the secrets of knife design and construction as we delve into the intricacies of crafting exceptional blades. Understand the nuances of balance, aesthetics, and functionality to create knives that are true masterpieces.
    2. Fine-Tune Your Craft with Advanced Tools & Materials: Our course equips you with an array of advanced tools and materials, allowing you to explore and implement cutting-edge techniques in your knife-making process.
    3. Elevate Your Grinding Techniques: Take your grinding skills to the next level with complex grinding techniques. Learn to shape, contour, and refine your blades to perfection, achieving the desired edge and aesthetics.
    4. Master Guard & Bolster Construction: Discover the art of crafting guards and bolsters, adding a touch of elegance and protection to your knives. Refine your metalworking skills to create exquisite knife fittings.
    5. Unlock the Secrets of Advanced Heat Treatment: Experience the next level of heat treatment, where you'll delve into intricate processes to enhance the performance and durability of your blades.
    6. Create Multiplex Handle Constructions: Explore the art of multiplex handle construction, combining various materials to produce stunning and durable handles that compliment your blades.
    7. Perfect Your Stone Sharpening Techniques: Hone your skills in stone sharpening, the traditional method of achieving an exceptionally sharp edge. Learn the subtleties of this technique to bring out the best in your knives.

    Knife Details:

    • Overall Blade Size: 7 to 8 inches
    • Knife Type: Outdoor or Kitchen Utility Knife
    At the culmination of this advanced course, you'll not only take home a fully functional art knife but also a wealth of new skills and knowledge that will transform your future knife designs. Whether you aspire to turn knife-making into a profession or simply seek to create extraordinary blades as a passionate hobbyist, this course will undoubtedly enrich your journey as a master bladesmith. Join us now to embark on this exceptional adventure and take your knife-making skills to unparalleled heights!
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  • School Of
    FORGING (Beginner)

    $800.00
    2 Day Class…

    2 Day Class

    Welcome to the immersive world of Knife-Forging! If you've ever dreamed of crafting your very own hand-forged blades, this hands-on Knife-Forging class is the perfect opportunity to bring that vision to life. Whether you're a seasoned blacksmith or a complete novice, our course caters to all, offering a comprehensive learning experience in the art of forging.

    Course Highlights:

    1. Embrace the Art of Knife Design & Hammering Techniques: Explore the art of knife design and learn the essential hammering techniques to shape raw metal into a blade. Under the guidance of our experienced instructors, discover the beauty of creating unique and functional knife designs.
    2. Fabrication & Functionality: Gain insights into the critical aspects of fabrication and functionality in knife forging. Understand how the form and features of a blade contribute to its overall performance.
    3. Master Forging Methods with Minimal Tools: Our course focuses on teaching you forging methods that can be accomplished with minimal tools and equipment, making the art of knife forging accessible to enthusiasts of all skill levels.
    4. Craft a Brute-Deforge-Style Knife: Leave the course with a fully finished Brute-Deforge-style knife, a rugged and robust blade that exudes character and craftsmanship.
    5. Expertise in Grinding Techniques: Refine your grinding skills as you learn to shape and refine your hand-forged blade into its final form. Achieve the desired edge and aesthetics with precision.
    6. Unlock the Secrets of Heat Treatment & Tempering: Experience the transformative process of heat treatment and tempering, essential steps that enhance your blade's durability and performance.
    7. Create a Simple Handle Design: Explore the art of crafting a simple, yet ergonomic handle design that perfectly complements your hand-forged blade.
    8. Sharpening Mastery: Hone your sharpening techniques to perfection, ensuring your knife is razor-sharp and ready for use.

    Knife Details:

    • Overall Blade Size: 7 to 8 inches
    • Knife Type: Outdoor or Kitchen Utility Knife
    Whether you're a blacksmith seeking to expand your skills or an aspiring bladesmith eager to create your first hand-forged masterpiece, our Knife-Forging class promises an unforgettable experience. Join us now and let the sparks fly as you forge your path into the world of knife-making artistry!
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  • School Of
    KITCHEN CUTLERY

    $1,200.00
    3 Day Class…

    3 Day Class

    Welcome to our Chef's Knife Making Class - a journey of craftsmanship and artistry! If you're an experienced knife-maker looking to elevate your skills and take on a new challenge, our comprehensive Chef's Knife Making Class is the perfect opportunity to create a custom chef's knife from a simple steel bar to a fully functional culinary masterpiece.

    Course Highlights:

    1. For Experienced Knife-Makers: This class is designed for individuals with a strong background in knife making. We recommend having a few years of experience or completing our Beginner & Advanced classes before taking on this challenging and rewarding endeavor.
    2. From Steel Bar to Chef's Knife: Immerse yourself in the step-by-step process of creating a custom chef's knife. Witness the transformation of a raw steel bar into a refined, fully finished, and functional culinary tool.
    3. Steel & Material Introductions: Explore the world of steel options and other materials used in chef knife-making. Understand the significance of choosing the right materials to achieve the perfect balance of performance and aesthetics.
    4. Chef Knife Design & Geometry: Delve into the art of chef knife design and geometry. Learn the principles behind crafting a versatile and efficient blade that caters to the unique needs of culinary professionals.
    5. Chef Knife Usability & Functionality: Gain insights into the usability and functionality of chef knives. Discover how subtle design elements can significantly impact the knife's performance in the hands of a skilled chef.
    6. Progressive Heat Treatment: Experience the art of progressive heat treatment, a critical process that ensures the blade's hardness and durability are optimized for professional use.
    7. Handle Construction & Ergonomics: Craft a handle that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also ergonomically designed for comfortable and precise handling during extended culinary tasks.
    8. Sharpening & Honing Techniques: Hone your sharpening and honing techniques to perfection, achieving a razor-sharp edge that enhances the knife's cutting performance.

    Knife Details:

    - Overall Blade Size: 12 to 13 inches - Your Choice Of Chef Knife From Existing Designs Our Chef's Knife Making Class is more than just a simple knife-making course; it's an opportunity to refine your techniques and elevate your artisanship to new heights. With an emphasis on precision, functionality, and aesthetics, we strive to equip you with the skills and knowledge to craft a chef's knife that exceeds your culinary expectations. Join us now and embrace the challenge of creating a custom chef's knife - a tool that will be cherished and appreciated in professional kitchens for years to come. Let this class be the catalyst to take your knife-making expertise to the next level!
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  • School Of
    SHEATH-MAKING (Hybrid)

    $800.00
    2 Day Class…

    2 Day Class

    Welcome to our  Hybrid Kydex & Leather Sheath Workshop! Are you ready to take your sheath-making skills to the next level? Our exciting workshop is designed to introduce you to the art of working with both Kydex and Leather, enabling you to create a one-of-a-kind hybrid sheath for your cherished knife.

    Course Highlights:

    1. Tools & Material Introductions: Get acquainted with the essential tools and materials required for crafting your hybrid sheath. Our knowledgeable instructors will guide you through the selection process, ensuring you have everything you need to create a premium-quality sheath.
    2. Sheath Design & Model: Unleash your creativity as you delve into the design process. Learn how to combine the versatility of Kydex and the elegance of Leather to craft a sheath that seamlessly blends functionality and aesthetics.
    3. Basic Mold Making: Master the fundamentals of mold making, a crucial step in creating a well-fitting hybrid sheath. Learn techniques to ensure a perfect fit and form for your knife.
    4. Kydex Molding Methods: Explore the world of Kydex molding methods, from heating and shaping to cooling and solidifying the material. Gain hands-on experience in molding Kydex to fit your knife precisely.
    5. Leather Lamination Technique: Discover the art of Leather lamination, a skill that adds a touch of sophistication to your sheath. Learn to combine Leather with Kydex, elevating the overall look and feel of your creation.
    6. Fitting & Burnishing: Refine your sheath-making skills as you fit and burnish both Kydex and Leather components. Achieve a flawless finish that showcases your craftsmanship.
    7. Accessories & Mounting: Add the final touches to your hybrid sheath by incorporating accessories of your choice. Personalize your sheath with optional mounting options, making it versatile and easy to carry.
    As you complete this workshop, you'll not only leave with a stunning hybrid Kydex & Leather sheath for your knife but also gain the skills and knowledge to continue your sheath-making journey at home. We provide you with the necessary skills, tools, and resources to empower you to craft more personalized sheaths for future knives and accessories. Join us now and unlock the potential of creating exquisite hybrid sheaths that perfectly suit your style and needs. With our expert guidance, let your imagination run wild and bring your vision to life in this captivating sheath-making adventure!
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  • School Of
    SHEATH-MAKING (Kydex)

    $500.00
    1 Day Class…

    1 Day Class

    Welcome to our Full-Day Kydex Sheath Workshop! Are you looking to add a personal touch to your beloved knife or seeking to enhance its functionality with a custom-made sheath? Look no further! Our full-day workshop is designed to empower you with the skills and knowledge to design and create a simple Kydex sheath that perfectly fits your knife.

    Course Highlights:

    1. Tools & Material Introductions: Get acquainted with the essential tools and materials required for crafting your Kydex sheath. Our expert instructors will guide you through the selection process, ensuring you have everything you need to create a professional-grade sheath.
    2. Sheath Design & Model: Unleash your creativity as you delve into the art of sheath design. Learn the principles of form and function to create a custom model that perfectly fits your knife.
    3. Basic Mold Making: Discover the fundamentals of mold making, an important step in crafting a well-fitting Kydex sheath. Gain hands-on experience and learn the techniques to ensure a precise fit for your knife.
    4. Kydex Molding Methods: Explore the versatile world of Kydex molding methods. From heating and shaping the material to achieve the desired form, to the cooling process that solidifies the sheath, you'll master every step of the molding process.
    5. Fitting & Burnishing: Refine your sheath-making skills as you fit and burnish the Kydex sheath to perfection. Ensure a smooth and polished finish that showcases your craftsmanship.
    6. Accessories & Mounting: Take your customization to the next level by adding an extra touch to your sheath. You have the option to include an accessory of your choice, such as a lighter or flashlight, allowing you to carry multiple essentials with ease.
    Leave the workshop with not just a unique Kydex sheath for your knife, but also with the confidence and knowledge to continue your sheath-making journey at home. Our class equips you with the necessary skills, tools, and resources, empowering you to craft more personalized sheaths for future knives and accessories. Bring your creativity and enthusiasm, and let our workshop be the gateway to unlocking your potential as a sheath-making enthusiast. Join us now, and together, let's create functional and stylish sheaths tailored to your preferences!
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  • School Of
    LEATHER-WORKING

    $500.00
    1 Day Class…

    1 Day Class

    Welcome to our Full-Day Leather Sheath Workshop! If you're passionate about creating functional and stylish leather sheaths for your knives, look no further! Our immersive workshop is designed to empower you with the skills and techniques to craft a simple yet elegant leather sheath for your beloved knife.

    Course Highlights:

    1. Tools & Material Introductions: Get acquainted with the essential tools and materials needed for leather sheath making. Our experienced instructors will guide you through the selection process, ensuring you have everything you need to create a high-quality sheath.
    2. Sheath Design & Model: Unleash your creativity as you dive into the design process. Learn how to conceptualize and model a leather sheath that perfectly complements your knife, blending form and functionality seamlessly.
    3. Sheath-Making Methods: Master the art of leather sheath-making with hands-on guidance. Understand the step-by-step process to create a sturdy and reliable sheath that protects your knife in style.
    4. Basic Hand-Stitching Techniques: Discover the art of hand-stitching leather as you bring your sheath to life. Learn different stitching techniques and achieve a professional finish that showcases your craftsmanship.
    5. Dyeing & Airbrushing: Enhance the aesthetics of your leather sheath with dyeing and airbrushing techniques. Add personalized colors and designs to make your sheath truly unique and a reflection of your style.
    6. Accessories & Mounting: Put the finishing touches on your leather sheath by adding accessories and mounting options. Customize your sheath to suit your needs and preferences for convenient carry.
    Throughout this comprehensive workshop, you'll not only create a bespoke leather sheath for your knife but also gain the knowledge and confidence to continue your sheath-making journey at home. We provide you with the necessary skills, tools, and resources to ensure you can further explore your passion for crafting leather sheaths. Whether you're a seasoned leatherworker or a beginner eager to delve into the art of sheath making, our workshop promises an unforgettable experience. Join us now and let your creativity flow as you create stunning leather sheaths that protect and showcase your knives with unrivaled style!
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  • School Of
    Little Makers

    $220.00
    3 Hours Class…

    3 Hours Class

    Welcome to the School of Little Makers, a place where young minds from ages 6 to 12 years old become master creators! Our program is designed to spark imagination, nurture creativity, and empower children to bring their ideas to life through hands-on projects and crafts. We believe every child is a born maker, and our dynamic program encourages kids to explore their interests, discover new skills, and dive into the exciting world of crafting, building, and tinkering. Calling all young inventors, artists, and crafters! The School of Little Makers is the ultimate hub for creative minds. Our engaging classes and workshops, limited to a maximum of 3 students per class, provide a safe and inspiring environment where children can experiment, problem-solve, and proudly create their own unique masterpieces. Step into the School of Little Makers, where creativity knows no bounds! From constructing cool structures to designing stunning artwork, our program ignites a passion for making in kids. Through collaborative projects and expert guidance, we empower little makers to unleash their imagination and build skills for a lifetime. With a focus on fun and discovery, our 3-hour classes introduce children to a world of crafts, DIY projects, and imaginative play. Join us on a journey of creativity, friendship, and endless possibilities! Feel free to choose or modify these descriptions to suit your preferences and communicate the unique essence of the "School of Little Makers." [foobar id="2497"]
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GET IN TOUCH

2612 S Croddy Way, Santa Ana, CA

Phone: 9496828282

OPENING TIMES

Weekdays Monday – Friday
09:00 – 18:00

Weekends Saturday – Sunday
09:00 – 18:00

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