Mark of the Maker
138 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 1 month ago - ★★★★★ - 239 ratingsMark of the Maker is a panel discussion with renowned custom knife makers Tom Krein, Sean Kendrick and Michael Burch, and hosted by Mark Stheiner. The format is much like a group of friends sitting around in The Pit at Blade Show, talking knives - a look at life from the perspective of the maker as well as the collector. Covering broader topics such as tactical knife history, trends, industry commentary and influences of social media, as well as conversations with other knifemakers, collectors and notable figures in and around the custom knife world. Music: “noir guitar” by Stevie’s Amp Shack, from the Free Music Archive, CC BY 4.0
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Episodes
Episode 32: Billy Cho
August 19, 2019 00:48 - 2 hours - 138 MBKnifemaker Billy Cho joins Mark of the Maker for a discussion about his life, his knives, what inspires his work and his perspective as a newer knifemaker. Billy has a pretty wide-ranging personal story, which helps paint yet another version of the story about where a knifemaker can emerge from. Check out our Patreon and follow us on Instagram @markofthemaker or join our discussion group on Facebook for more conversation.
Episode 31: Nick Rolfe
August 05, 2019 02:47 - 2 hours - 145 MBThe incredibly talented Nick Rolfe joins us to chat about knives, his life, and his own journey from collecting knives to using them in Search and Rescue. We have a very frank and open conversation about people of color in and around the knife world and Nick shares his own picks for a Three Knife Collection. Check out our Patreon and follow us on Instagram @markofthemaker or join our discussion group on Facebook for more conversation.
Episode 30: Three Knife Collection
July 23, 2019 01:05 - 2 hours - 115 MBIf you could only keep three knives from your collection, which would you keep and why? We chat about this as well as the fun version of it - if you could add three knives of unlimited budget or attainability, what would you pick and why? We'd love to hear your own picks, please share them with us! Tag us on IG or use the hashtag #threeknifecollection to share your own pics. Check out our Patreon and follow us on Instagram @markofthemaker or join our discussion group on Facebook for more...
Episode 29: David Sharp
July 08, 2019 11:14 - 1 hour - 109 MBIn Episode 29, we welcome David Sharp back to Mark of the Maker. David was kind enough to help us with our Loveless history episode and this time we talk with David about his own knifemaking journey. We talk about David's background, his unique path into knifemaking, his preferences in design and style and a bit about what makes him tick outside the knife world. Check out our Patreon and follow us on Instagram @markofthemaker or join our discussion group on Facebook for more conversation.
Episode 28: Blade 2019 Wrap-Up
June 24, 2019 12:13 - 2 hours - 117 MBWe chat about our Blade Show 2019 experience and some differences in the show this year. Some good, some not so good, but always a fun time overall. Like last year, we share some sound clips from the floor and some words from some Friends of The Show Jeremy Marsh, Brian Efros, Billy Cho, Chris Taylor and Luke Swenson. Check out our Patreon and follow us on Instagram @markofthemaker or join our discussion group on Facebook for more conversation.
Minisode: Back to School - Part 2
June 10, 2019 12:18 - 24 minutes - 23.5 MBIn the second installment of this minisode series, we talk with Sean Kendrick about how his first semester of college wrapped up and what he's taken away from the experience so far. Follow us on Instagram @markofthemaker or join our discussion group on Facebook for more conversation.
Episode 27: Show Etiquette Remixed
May 28, 2019 12:09 - 2 hours - 141 MBBlade Show is coming up fast, so we wanted to revisit the topic of show etiquette. Knife shows are a great experience, both for knives and for the social aspect. The first 30 minutes of this episode is new content and the addition of some topics we didn't catch last time. The remainder is a remastered version of Episode 11, dedicated to show etiquette. Follow us on Instagram @markofthemaker or join our discussion group on Facebook for more conversation.
Episode 26: Loveless Knives
May 20, 2019 11:19 - 2 hours - 133 MBThe crew digs into the history and work of one of the world's most influential knife makers, Bob Loveless. Special guest and knifemaker David Sharp joins us, a student of the Loveless Knives style and a friend of Jim Merritt and the Merritt family. David shares some additional insights into the "how" and "why" behind the Loveless Knives formula, as we walk through the timeline together. Follow us on Instagram @markofthemaker or join our discussion group on Facebook for more conversation.
Minisode: Inside the Knifemaker's Head
May 06, 2019 12:40 - 1 hour - 57.1 MBWith the solitary world many custom makers function in, sometimes the need for a bit of maintenance goes beyond the machines and into the mind. Michael and Sean discuss some of these challenges and how they try to deal with them. Many of you may find similar things rattling around upstairs, knifemaker or otherwise. This one gets a bit personal, hope you find it enlightening or helpful in some way.
Minisode: Hatchets, Axes and Tomahawks (Oh my!)
April 15, 2019 12:06 - 1 hour - 61.6 MBIn this minisode, Tom talks about his love of hatchets, axes and tomahawks. We chat about both traditional and tactical styles and discuss a few great makers and designs out there today. This minisode ran a bit longer than usual, but we expect it's one you'll enjoy. Did we miss your favorite axe or tomahawk maker or design? Let us know! Follow us on Instagram @markofthemaker or join our discussion group on Facebook for more conversation.
Episode 25: Chris Taylor
April 01, 2019 13:09 - 1 hour - 102 MBWe are joined by knifemaker Chris Taylor of Taylor Made Knives in this episode. Chris tells us about his life, his work and how he came into the knife making world. Although he isn't a really a new maker, he's new to the "big show" scene and we discuss some of the challenges that newer makers face as their work becomes more well known and in demand. We touch on what the guys are working on, the fancy new tool Tom has incoming and some MotM merch we've got coming. Follow us on Instagram @...
Minisode: Back To School - Part 1
March 18, 2019 13:48 - 26 minutes - 26.1 MBIn this minisode series, we'll talk with Sean Kendrick about how his experience going back to school later in life is impacting his knifemaking. Sean talks about what got him motivated to head down this path and a little about how it has already influenced his perspective. Follow us on Instagram @markofthemaker or join our discussion group on Facebook for more conversation.
Episode 24: Questions and More Questions
March 05, 2019 14:00 - 2 hours - 124 MBWe had questions for one another, about life and about knifemaking - so we asked them. These turned into discussions that we thought you might find fun, interesting or helpful. Topics range from music to back pain to knife making processes and belt selection and even a conversation about cars. Definitely a ramble and one that ran longer than any of us expected. We enjoyed the chat, and hope you will as well. Follow us on Instagram @markofthemaker or join our discussion group on Facebook...
Episode 23: Jeremy Marsh
February 11, 2019 13:31 - 2 hours - 120 MBCustom knifemaker Jeremy Marsh joins us this time on Mark of the Maker. Jeremy is a toolmaker by trade and he explains how his experiences as a tool and die maker helped him gain the skills to form the basis of his craft. As seems to often be the case, his background has some common touchpoints with our own but for sure, Jeremy's story is unique. We talk knives, knife shows, and about how the pursuit of perfection is a common thread between craftsmen of all types. Follow us on Instagram ...
Episode 22: Season 2 Kickoff
January 14, 2019 23:16 - 1 hour - 106 MBThe Crew rejoins after a long winter break. We discuss happenings over the last few weeks, review our own 2018's, talk resolutions and trends for 2019 and point out some makers to watch as we roll into the new year. Just a casual, wandering conversation to get back into the groove and a look ahead into 2019. Sean's got news, Tom's got a surprise and as has happened on more than one occasion, Michael ends up astounded. Follow us on Instagram @markofthemaker or join our discussion group on...
Episode 21: Justin Laffer
December 10, 2018 13:06 - 2 hours - 121 MBWe are joined by knife collector Justin Laffer for another Collector Spotlight episode. Justin shares his perspective with us on a variety of topics relevant to the knife community and the current state of the custom knife scene. As always, Justin is eloquent and well-spoken as we hit some key touchpoints facing both collectors and makers today. It's a fun, rambling conversation and we hope you enjoy it as much as we did. Follow us on Instagram @markofthemaker or join our discussion grou...
Episode 20: Scary Knives
November 12, 2018 13:41 - 2 hours - 111 MBYou know you've seen them before - knives that have "that look" and give pause to even the casual observer. We dig into the topic of scary knives, whether from horror movies or designed with specific scary intent. This one's a bit of a ramble that we recorded on Halloween. Do you have a favorite scary knife? If so, sound off on our Instagram @markofthemaker or join the Mark of the Maker group on Facebook for some conversation.
Episode 19: Three Knives on a Budget
October 29, 2018 12:04 - 1 hour - 102 MBThe crew faces a challenge: What knife would you buy if you had $25 to spend? How about $100 or $300? We won't pretend our choices are the "best" for the money, but each has a reason why they were chosen. A fun episode for us and some choices you might not expect. Join us in our Facebook group "Mark of the Maker" and let us know what your picks are!
Influences: James Keating and the Crossada
October 15, 2018 13:17 - 31 minutes - 30.1 MBIn our second Minisode, Tom talks about the Crossada and how James Keating and his iconic fighting knife design have influenced his own work.
Episode 18: Andy Frankart
September 26, 2018 21:51 - 2 hours - 115 MBWe are joined by collector and maker Andy Frankart for a discussion about knives, collecting, and his perspective as the maker of probably the hottest and most collectable non-knife EDC items out there. Andy shares insights with us about how he came into the knife community, some specifics of some great pieces in his own knife collection, and what it was like to see his brand explode. Fun stories, some personal history and a great conversation.
Influences: In the Rogue Blood
September 10, 2018 13:46 - 21 minutes - 11.4 MBIn our first minisode, we explore influences. Sean dives into a savage scene from one of his favorite books and we talk about how the knife in this scene influenced his work at the time. We'll use these short minisodes to help fill in some gaps about influences and their role in forming a knifemaker and their aesthetic.
Episode 17: Ethnic Knives, The Gathering
August 27, 2018 12:09 - 1 hour - 54.3 MBWe dive into the diverse and fascinating world of ethnic knives - knives and designs that come from specific regions or cultures around the world. We discuss the origins of these designs and how many of them influenced knives used to this day in both functional and fighting roles. Also discussed is the upcoming Gathering X show in Las Vegas. We offer advice for Gathering newcomers and some reminders about show etiquette.
Episode 16: Lucas Burnley
August 13, 2018 11:46 - 2 hours - 59.5 MBOur friend and knifemaker Lucas Burnley joins us for a conversation about life, influences, knives and other projects like his immensely popular Cypop. We go pretty deep on this one and Lucas shares both insights on his creative process and how he works to keep his perspective fresh and skills sharp. You can find Lucas on Facebook at Burnley Knives, on Instagram @burnleyknives or at his website burnleyknives.com
Episode 15: Questions and Answers
July 31, 2018 04:12 - 2 hours - 64 MBThe crew takes on a lengthy list of Q&A, submitted by both collector and knifemaker listeners. We discuss a wide variety of topics from design to motivation to professional courtesy, and a few stories about mishaps in the shop. If you'd like to add a question of your own for consideration in a future episode, join us in our Mark of the Maker Facebook group or follow us on Instagram @markofthemaker.
Episode 14: Kevin Devitt
July 09, 2018 11:33 - 2 hours - 57.3 MBIn our first Collector Spotlight episode, we sit down for a chat with Kevin Devitt. Those familiar with Kevin know that he has a collection of custom knives that is as diverse as it is deep. We talk about his collecting motivation and changes in the scene over time. Kevin shares some insights on a few special pieces in his collection that you won't want to miss. Join us in the Mark of the Maker group on Facebook to see some photos of these special pieces or find Kevin on Instagram @krevm...
Episode 13: Randall Made
June 26, 2018 01:20 - 1 hour - 52.4 MBIn our second history episode, we dig into the early days of Randall Made Knives and how they grew to be known as one of the premier knife companies in the world. We talk about the vision and legacy of W.D. "Bo" Randall, how his brand helped define and shape the knife industry, and about how Randall Made Knives have been favored by our armed forces for decades. The crew each talks about their favorite model and some background on why they find them significant.
Episode 12: Blade Show 2018 Recap
June 11, 2018 16:17 - 2 hours - 56.9 MBThe MotM team recaps Blade Show 2018 and some of the the changes to the show for this year - some that were good, and others not so good. We share some sounds from the floor of the biggest knife show of the year and some feedback we received about the podcast during the weekend. The crew discusses a few newer makers to watch, cool stuff we brought home and some advice for makers about how they might reflect on their own Blade 2018 experience.
Episode 11: Show Etiquette
May 20, 2018 15:02 - 2 hours - 56 MBWith Blade Show just around the corner, we decided to offer up an episode regarding knife show etiquette. Some of the tips are specific to Blade, but most are applicable to any knife show experience. We discuss prep, do's and don'ts, and some advice for both collectors and makers, whether veterans of the show scene or new folks to the fold.
Episode 10: Knives of the Movies
April 23, 2018 23:14 - 2 hours - 56.1 MBHave you ever watched a movie and noticed details like what knife the character was using or carrying? We sure do and this episode is focused on exactly that, a fun look at knives of the movies. The panel goes round-robin like we did with "Five Knives" and if you're a child of the action film genre, we probably end up talking about some of your favorites. We wrap it up with some fun new stuff, Blade Show updates and a little tip about some upcoming merch you may want to get in on.
Episode 09: Pricing
April 12, 2018 01:51 - 1 hour - 52.9 MBOur panel of makers discusses pricing of custom knives and how those price structures have evolved over their careers so far. We touch on materials, design, complexity, technology, and how they all impact pricing. As always, there are differences and similarities - some of which aren't obvious until we dig into the topic in detail.
Episode 08: Nick Rossi
March 27, 2018 01:26 - 2 hours - 56.3 MBOur friend Nick Rossi joins the show to share insights with us about bladesmithing, blacksmithing and his life. Nick is an ABS Journeyman and is working toward becoming a Mastersmith. We discuss his craft and his perspective, and learn how his inspiration sometimes comes from places you might not expect. Together we field a little more Q&A and talk about what's happening in the maker's shops.
Episode 07: Five Knives
March 13, 2018 20:37 - 1 hour - 54.1 MBThis time, the crew enjoys a fun conversation where we each talk about "five knives" that we think are cool. Some are historically significant, others are grails, and many are just regular knives with personal meaning. Thanks to listener input, we take on a couple Q&A questions on cooking and advice for new makers, and reveal the subject of our first interview.
Episode 06: Scagel Handmade
February 27, 2018 14:53 - 1 hour - 46.6 MBOur first history episode focuses on a man who many consider The Father of Modern Custom Knives, the legendary and somewhat mysterious Bill Scagel. We discuss aspects of Scagel and his work that any maker or collector should understand, and why he is one of the most important and iconic figures of the knife world.
Episode 05: Mark Stheiner
February 11, 2018 21:31 - 2 hours - 59.2 MBOur last panel intro is with collector Mark Stheiner. Mark gives us some insight into his background and how he got into knife collecting. We discuss design, knife shows, the knife community, and a shared set of interests that brought us all to a similar place.
Episode 04: Michael Burch
January 22, 2018 00:32 - 2 hours - 71.3 MBOur third knifemaker panel introduction digs into the life and background of Michael Burch. We learn about Michaels influences, what drives him to perfect his craft, and how his love for knives put him on a path to become a craftsman.
Episode 03: Sean Kendrick
January 07, 2018 20:39 - 1 hour - 54.3 MBThe second of our deeper knifemaker panel introductions is focused on Sean Kendrick. Sean shares his background, his long-running love for knives and how his family is not only supportive, but a part of his business. He pulls no punches and is eloquent and well-spoken (as always) in this lengthy conversation with Tom, Mark and Michael.
Episode 02: Tom Krein
December 28, 2017 19:27 - 1 hour - 46.2 MBThe first in a series of deeper introductions, this episode focuses on knifemaker Tom Krein. We talk about life, family, knives and history with Tom, and in the end, we all come away knowing a bit more about Tom than we ever did before.
Episode 01: Introduction
December 21, 2017 03:05 - 27 minutes - 12.9 MBAn introduction to the panel and a discussion about the intentions, goals and plans for the podcast. Some insights into what the makers have on their bench and what projects are coming up.