Clem Vanhee

Atelier 185

Knife maker

The cutting edge of an ancient craft

Damascus steel is created by welding two or more types of steel
Clem makes functional tools with an artistic design twist
All his knives are made to be used

“Ever since I was little, I've always been attracted to knives. The simplicity in the design and functionality of knives always fascinated me.” Clem Vanhee continues the ancient art of forge-welding Damascus steel, which has been practised by the best swordsmiths around the world since the beginning of the Iron Age. After finishing his high school studies in mechanical design and engineering, Clem Vanhee started an evening course in blacksmithing at the CVO Ghent. Under the skilled supervision of Philip Vercammen he learned how to forge, wield and weld hot steel, gradually turning to the almost lost art of Damascus steel forging and knife making.

Interview

What do you love about knife making?: It’s a very sophisticated craft, which involves a lot of different techniques and in which I can use my manual skills. At the same time, it still involves my engineering skills in making my own machines and tools. Moreover, I enjoy developing my own techniques.
How do you update such an ancient and noble craft?: I make many of my knives according to century-old designs, but I always implement my own way of creating and finishing. The knife handles are specifically designed by me with attention to the design and ergonomics.
Can you remember a memorable moment in your professional life?: There have been many. One of them is being asked by Antoine Van Loocke to make the Damascus steel blades for his Antoku series, presented at the Design Triennial in Ghent 2016.
What surprises people about you?: As well as a knife maker, I’m also a mechanical design engineer specialised in the development of gas fireplaces. I occasionally work for several fireplace companies to help them create their gas fireplaces and keep them technically up to date.

Clem Vanhee is a master artisan: he began his career in 2010 and he started teaching in 2015