About Me

Hi I'm Carl, thank you for visiting my website. I design and produce hand made Damascus steel chef's knifes from my forge in York, North Yorkshire. Every knife I make is completely unique, a beautiful one-off creation that lasts a lifetime.

A bit about my background

I started out as an apprentice at British Rail which gave me a broad training in all engineering trades, finally specialising in woodwork. Following redundancy and several short-term jobs I rediscovered a love of metalwork and have been working in this medium since 1999.

2 damascus steel knives — The unique damascus patterns folded into the blades mean that no two knives are ever the same

After taking courses with the renowned bladesmith Owen Bush (thanks Owen) I was bitten by the Damascus bug and immediately set about building my own forge. I have been forging pattern-welded (Damascus) kitchen knives since 2015, initially without the aid of a power hammer. When I eventually had the means to invest in one, it enabled me to do more intricate patterns plus reduced the stress on my joints which I hope means I’II be able to continue my passion for many years to come!

Beautiful individual creations

My main focus is Damascus kitchen knives of various designs. I have produced knives incorporating inherited wedding rings as the ferrule (the metal ring around the knife where the blade and handle join). The idea came from when I inherited my Grandad’s wedding ring. I didn’t want to leave it sat in a box hidden in a drawer and I liked the idea of being able to see and use it everyday adorning my favourite knife. Whilst I can recreate styles of patterns, because everything is handcrafted, each finished piece will be unique.

closeup of knife handle with exposed full tang showing intricate damascus steel pattern — Knife with a wedding ring ferrule

However, I don’t limit my work to Damascus products and enjoy making anything that I find interesting and challenging. I’ve played around with different designs for thing like bottle openers, candle holders, hooks, and toasting forks (perfect for those long cold winters in front of the fire). I’ve also created jewellery out of the small bits of Damascus and recently made a Damascus spoon as a gift for a new baby.

View more images in the photo gallery or view products for sale.

Together with my brother, I also cast gold wedding rings in cuttlefish bones for my nephew and his wife to be. In short, I enjoy a challenge when it comes to practical tasks and the range of things I’ll have a go at making are limited only by the size of my forge, my current workload and whether it’s a realistic project!

Please note I will only produce UK legal knives.

What people say

“Carl's work is stunning, not only a beautifully hand crafted, functional knife but a stand alone piece of artwork to treasure. Every chop, slice and dice is a pleasure and I cannot recommend Carl's work enough to anyone who appreciates great quality, made with pride and attention to detail, that will last a lifetime.”

Lynne, Staffordshire

“We wanted something unique for our farm house we are renovating in the Andalusian mountains. Carl made this dragon door knocker and we couldn't be more pleased.”

Karen, Spain

“If anyone out there is struggling with the question of what to buy as a 50th birthday present for the man who has everything, one of Carl Camp's knives is the answer. With the possible exception of the Morris Minor I was given when I was 21, this is quite simply the finest gift I have ever received.”

Stephen, Kent

“'Carl made me a challenging custom knife and it is stunning. Having used it for some time in a professional kitchen I can safely say Carl's knives are of the highest quality. The steels used in his Damascus knives are very durable. They hold and edge very well and sharpen easily. They also don't tarnish as much as other high carbon steels I have experienced.”

Lawrence, York

“I am delighted with the small Damascus cross you made, which hangs above my writing desk. The play of light during the day brings out the veins in the metal – fascinating; thank you.”

Ann, York

“One our wedding gifts was a beautifully crafted Damascus carving knife and fork. We love it and it's so special as it's bespoke. ”

George & Fliss, Derby

“Having purchased the cleaver from you this year I must say I am still in awe of the craftsmanship and the quality of the piece. It is by far my favourite tool in the kitchen. Keep up the amazing work. I am a fan! ”

Chris, London

“I own two knives from Carl and use them everyday. Both are beautifully made. The rocker on the blades makes them easy to sharpen with a steel and these blades are incredibly sharp! I love the fact that my all-in-one knife is recycled from a concrete breaker chisel bit that would otherwise be thrown away. I really don't think you can buy a better knife.”

Kester, York

“We have had a bottle opener and a Damascus baby spoon made by Carl - the attention to detail is fabulous!”

Felicity, South Derbyshire

“The kitchen knife is a work of art; a superb example of quality craftmanship. And it's sharp too!”

Andy, York

“This blade is honestly closer to a Samurai sword than a kitchen knife. It is perfectly balanced and glides through anything it touches. But I usually keep it on display in its case - it only comes out for the most important occasions and the most important guests.”

Alastair, York

“We were given a Damascus steel knife as a wedding gift which we used to cut the wedding cake. It was such an amazing and very special and unique gift. The knife is beautifully crafted and a work of art that we will treasure.”

Nic and Ross, Northants