High Carbon

This week we catch up with returning guest Paul Baleta of Baleta Handmade, who shares how relocating from Austria back to the UK has transformed his knife-making journey. From downsizing to a more compact workshop to tackling the unique restrictions and opportunities of the UK knife scene, and how he has been adapting his business to this new market. Paul walks us through the work behind his custom-built display cabinets, explains how show setups in the UK differ from Europe, and offers practical tips for first-time exhibitors gearing up for events like Knife Show Austria.

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Sponsored by MiniHell.eu – serious heat for serious makers.

The crew is back with shop stories, Blade Show drama, and a surprise visit from Sid Knives. We talk fake Gold Vein knockoffs, and weird DMs from “wood sellers.” Plus, Paulius swears he’s chill now (we’ll see), and Albert shares a frustrating tale of a shattered carbide platen days before a forging class.

🔥 Sponsored by MiniHell.eu – serious heat for serious makers.

Link to the fake Gold vein knife

This week we’re joined by Gabe Fletcher of Anchorage Forge! Gabe is well known for his mesmerizing Damascus steel patterns and his passion for brewing some of the finest craft beers known to man. In this episode, Gabe takes us behind the scenes of his creative process, explaining how he achieves his intricate Damascus patterns and the many challenges that he has faced along the way.

Gabe will be attending Knife Show Austria this May 10th and 11th, and we’re excited to announce he’s also taking part in this year’s Klingen für Gutes charity project, helping us raise money for children in need.

Help support us on Patreon and let our sponsor Mini Hell know your listening by using the code WFI5 at checkout for 5% of your entire order!

If you are in the EU you can get some of Gabe's beer at Brew Export

Podcast Episode Description:

After a year-long break, Sven Schellander of SID Knives is back—and better than ever! This week, Sven joins us to talk about what he's been up to: building a new house, setting up a fully equipped workshop, and preparing for his first knife show this May 10th and 11th at Knife Show Austria. With a fresh workspace and his passion reignited, Sven is diving headfirst into the craft and pushing his skills to the next level. Tune in to hear about his journey, his plans, and why you should definitely follow his progress on Instagram!

Help support us by joining our Patreon page and visit our sponsor Mini Hell for all your Heat treating supplies! Use "WFI5" at checkout to save 5% your next order!

This Week on the Pod: We’re joined by Chris from Forge Works, who gives us an inside look at some of his exciting upcoming projects—plus, he announces something huge that’s already in the works! Meanwhile, Keith gets an unexpected visitor mid-recording, but don't worry, Paulius keeps the ship sailing smoothly for our listeners.

help support the podcast by joining our Patreon and don't forget to check out our new sponsor Mini Hell!

Disclaimer:The WFI Europe Podcast does not condone drinking and driving. If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol or addiction, please seek help.

In this episode of "Steel the Show", Ben Kamon and Baltic Blades discuss the benefits and drawbacks of one-piece workflow. From packaging to Toyota's A3 method, they discuss how it impacts quality, creativity, and efficiency in their business model. This episode is packed with jokes, insights, inspiration, and a little bit of shop talk.

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Check out our new sponsor Mini Hell they have the heat treating ovens and supplies you need at a great price!

Camille Sennegon is a skilled artisan bladesmith and fabricator based in Cluses, France. Camille continues to refine his craft, earning him recognition within the American Bladesmith Society. In 2024, he became a full-time bladesmith, and this week he joined us to discuss the knives he will present in Atlanta this year as he works toward earning his Master Smith title.

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Kurt Glatt is a skilled bladesmith based in Freiburg, Germany, known for crafting high-quality custom chef knives under Messerschmiede Glatt. Beyond knife-making, Kurt also offers forging courses, sharing his craftsmanship with others. His dedication to precision and artistry has earned him recognition in the knife-making community.

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This week, we’re joined by the legendary Fingal Ferguson! We take a closer look at the latest from the Salzburg boys, including their newest tuna sword and how it performed slicing through a massive 200+ kilo bluefin tuna. Plus, Fingal’s fully restored power hammer has finally arrived! The boys walk him through setting it up for the first time, sharing tips, laughs, and a few surprises along the way—including announcing the winners of two weekend passes to the upcoming Knife Show Austria May 10th and 11th.

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In this episode, we dive into an important question for knife makers: Are you just selling a product, or are you selling your journey, craftsmanship, and passion? Buyers are often drawn to more than just a blade—they connect with the maker behind it. We discuss how storytelling, branding, and building a personal connection with your audience can elevate your sales and set you apart in a competitive market.