How Whitewater Forge Was Created 

My name is Mike Whitmore, I established Whitewater Forge in 2020. After watching the history channel’s Forged in Fire series for many years, I decided to try to make something with a hammer at the anvil. In September 2018, I constructed a forge made out of a metal ketchup can. I used 1¼-inch bolts for the legs and lined it with a mixture of plaster and play sand. I made my first hook out of a rusty nail. It looked pretty rough, but I was hooked. After lots of practice I decided to get some education in the art of blacksmithing. I researched and followed several tutorials on-line, such as: The Essential Craftsman Blacksmithing course. Teaching me the fundamentals of blacksmithing techniques and forge welding. 

I decided to Join as an apprentice in 2021 with the American Bladesmith Society. I am Currently working towards becoming a Journeyman Smith, a process that takes three years, with the ultimate goal of becoming a Master Smith, which takes another three years.

My journey in knife making beings from a passion in home cooking with a love for culinary experimentation. Spending countless hours in the kitchen, I found myself fascinated not only by the art of cooking but also by the tools I used. As I delved deeper into the world of cooking, I realized the crucial role a quality knife plays in the culinary process. Determined to enhance my culinary experience, I began crafting my own knives, experimenting with different designs and materials. The joy of creating something both beautiful and functional ignited a newfound passion within me. With each knife I made, my skills grew, and soon I found myself drawn to the craft of knife making full-time, channeling my love for cooking into the meticulous art of creating exquisite forged blades for fellow food enthusiasts and chefs.

 The Studio