Hey everyone! My brother-in-law is diving into woodcarving and has asked for some hand tools for his birthday. He's already into engraving and wants to start making cups and mugs. There's just so much out there, and I'm a bit lost! I've heard about Flexcut, but I want to explore some other solid options as well. We're based in the UK, so any recommendations that work well here would be super helpful. Thanks!
3 Answers
Thanks for all the great suggestions, everyone! I really appreciate it! ?
Adam Ashworth makes really nice knives that are worth checking out! Also, for making cups or small bowls, consider getting a large gouge, around 30mm. Both straight and bent versions can be useful at different stages. I’ve been getting mine from Strongway tools in Ukraine, and their prices are pretty reasonable. You might be able to order them directly to Europe!
If you’re in the UK, there are some fantastic handcrafted knife makers you should check out! Ben Orford makes some great tools like the Big Pick Knife, which is awesome for beginners. Sean Hellman also has a good small carving knife, and Nic Westermann's shop will open in September again, so keep an eye on that! For something more budget-friendly, Morakniv makes solid knives too—like the Mora 120 or 106. Plus, you might want a hook knife for hollowing out bowls, and a short bent gouge could be handy as well!
I have a Morakniv hook knife, and it’s been great for me! It's sharp right away, even on hardwood. Handcrafted ones might be better quality, but it can get pricey. If you're concerned about budget, Flexcut is definitely a good starting point, but be careful not to buy a set—those extras often go unused. Since your brother-in-law is into engraving, he may already have some sharpening tools, but adding a strop or a sharpening stone could be game-changers!
Awesome suggestions! Do you think it's better to get both a sloyd knife and a hook knife, or just start with one? I guess it depends on personal preference, right?