Craig Henshaw
Knifemaker
Craig Henshaw is a Muskoka craftsman in the heart of cottage country. He hand-makes Damascus knives in the traditional manner as a way to slow down and connect with the natural world.
The Henshaw family has been part of Huntsville history for the best part of a century. Beginning in 1864 with a land grant determining the Henshaw's as being empire loyalists. They have since been fashioning ways of living that embrace the outdoors and bring the best elements of nature and natural living into the home. Craig’s knifemaking process takes him back to a connection with both land and material, and the mindfulness he brings to his practice is evident in the pieces he creates.
Educated in both Japanese and Western Bladesmithing styles, and combining these techniques in his own unique way, Henshaw builds his knives in the time-proven san mai method, wrapping Damascus steel around a core of high carbon steel to produce a piece that will become part of your family’s legacy for many years to come; an heirloom with a connection to Northern Ontario history.
Since the beginning of his Bladesmithing journey, Craig has studied with a number of established and notable metalworkers and smiths. Special thanks to Taro Asano of Hashima, Japan and Salem Strubb of Tonasket, WA.
Craig is a professionally trained teacher in current good standing with the Ontario College of Teachers. He has 20 years experience as a teacher with a focus in both Academic and in Technological studies at the high school and university levels. Craig teaches the only college level Bladesmithing course in Canada at Fleming College in Haliburton, Ontario.
Guest at the Studio of
Located at
16 St. Andrews Circle
Huntsville, ON P1H 1B1