Today we are veering off the beaten path to appreciate this little gem of a handcrafted knife by Brazilian knifemaker, Ivan Campos. In the spirit of full disclosure, yours truly knows very little about knives – especially those of the non table variety. Regardless, the heart wants what the heart wants and this little heart would like a pretty little knife like that on her coffee table, or mantel or maybe even in my purse…

THE KNIFE – this imperfectly perfect pocket-sized work of art is made from a Damascus steel blade and g-10 handle (a synthetic laminate which Ivan no longer uses – opting for natural woods instead). For those not in the know, Damascus steel is the stuff of crusading legends – fabled for its distinctive swirling damask pattern, razor-like edge and durability in battle. As for the style, it’s a ‘friction folder’ which basically means it does not lock into an open or closed position but is held in place by the friction between its parts.

THE ARTIST – A one time real estate agent, Ivan Campos (1974) has been making knives professionally out of his studio in Tatuí, Brazil since 2000. He cites Mr. Bide, a “very  typical old-time town´s blacksmith”, as his mentor and credits him with the objective that underscores all his work “to make a simple, functional knife that makes its user and me happy.” As Ivan elaborates, “The  knives I make are robust and affordable, and this is a fine combination of characteristics for tools that will see use in the real world…” Modesty aside, Ivan is as much artist as he is craftsman – regularly tailoring and finishing his work to suit the desires and expectations of the individual customer. Knife pricing begins at $50 USD and goes up from there.

This particular knife is the property of blade aficionado and founder of PIVOT & TANG – a blog dedicated to the celebration and review of beautiful knife design. I recommend a swing by their site for a fully informed review of this Ivan Campos design.

Photography: PIVOT & TANG