Lil Travel Folks is supported by its readers. If you purchase through a link on my site, I may earn a commission. Learn more
As a mom who frequently visits the Smoky Mountains with my family, I’ve discovered a unique experience that’s become a highlight of our trips – knife making near Pigeon Forge.
Yes, you read that right! Knife making is not just an activity, it’s an adventure, a hands-on lesson in craftsmanship, and a way to create lasting memories.
My husband and our four boys look forward to this activity. We don’t do it everytime we head to the area, but we’ve loved it when we did.
It’s not just about the thrill of shaping hand-forged steel items into something practical and beautiful, it’s also about the bond we strengthen as we learn and create together. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned craftsman, there’s something incredibly satisfying about turning a piece of raw metal into your own knife.
In this article, I’ll share our experiences and provide a helpful guide to the best places for knife making in and around Pigeon Forge. So, if you’re planning a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains and looking for a unique experience, keep reading!
Knife Making Locations Near Pigeon Forge
Dollywood
Located in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Dollywood offers a unique experience for knife enthusiasts. At the Valley Forge Blacksmith in Craftsman’s Valley, you can forge your own knife with the help of a professional. This is a great experience for young children as well, as kids as young as 7 can participate in the knife making process.
There are several options for knife making at Dollywood:
- Railroad spike knife, around $99 (recommended for adults)
- Horseshoe knife, around $59 (great for older kids and teens)
- Bolt knife, around $29 (best for kids 7 and up but small for adult hands)
The process of making a knife at Dollywood is a great experience. You’ll be suited up in an apron and headgear for safety, and then you’ll get to hammer the blade and make your handle. The experts will sharpen it for you, and you’ll have a unique souvenir to take home. Read more
Iron Mountain Metal Craft
Iron Mountain Metal Craft is another great option for knife making. Run by Forged in Fire Fan Favorite, Robby Bowman, also known as the “Smoky Mountain Cowboy”, this place offers a variety of beginner lessons with prices ranging from $20 to $85.
They even offer a special nail knife for ages 5-12 that costs around $20, making it a great option for younger kids. With us having a five year old, this is a great place to go. He’s ready for his own lesson but he hasn’t had one yet! Read more
Circle Bar T Forge
Circle Bar T Forge offers a variety of knife making experiences. Their passion for blacksmithing and bladesmithing is evident in their work.
In addition to offering blacksmithing lessons for individuals and groups, they also make a variety of metal crafts and offer custom works for those interested in commissioning a unique piece. Read more
Gatlinburg Forge and Blade
Gatlinburg Forge and Blade is a newer knife forging venue in the area. Located at 449 Parkway in Gatlinburg, they have received very good reviews on their Facebook Page.
It seems like everyone has a good time, there is humor, and of course, a quality knife is the result. We haven’t tried them yet, but from their pictures they will let children forge as well as adults. Read more
Each of these locations offers a unique experience for knife making near Pigeon Forge. Whether you’re a seasoned craftsman or a first-timer, you’re sure to have a great time and learn a lot in the process.
The Knife Making Process
Knife making is a craft that requires patience, precision, and a respect for the materials and tools you’re working with. It’s a process that can be incredibly rewarding, especially when you see the final product of your hard work. Here’s a look at the step-by-step process of making a knife, the safety precautions you should take, and the rewarding experience of creating a unique souvenir.
Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Make a Knife
The process of making a knife varies depending on the type of knife you’re making and the location where you’re making it. However, the basic steps remain the same:
- Choose Your Metal: The first step in making a knife is choosing the metal. This could be a railroad spike, a horseshoe, or a nail, depending on the class you’re taking.
- Heat the Metal: The metal is heated in a forge until it’s red hot. This makes it malleable and easier to shape.
- Shape the Knife: Using a hammer and anvil, you’ll shape the heated metal into the form of a knife. This is where you can get creative and make the knife your own.
- Sharpen the Knife: Once the knife has been shaped, it’s time to sharpen it. This is done using a grinding wheel.
- Polish and Finish: The final step is to polish the knife and add any finishing touches. This could include adding a handle or engraving the knife.
Safety Precautions and Tips
Safety is paramount when making a knife. Here are some safety precautions and tips to keep in mind:
- Always wear safety gear, including gloves, safety glasses, and an apron.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Make sure you’re aware of where the hot forge, sharp tools, and other people are at all times.
- Listen to the instructors. They’re there to ensure your safety and help you make the best knife possible.
- Don’t rush. Knife making is a process that can’t be rushed. Take your time and enjoy the experience.
The Rewarding Experience of Creating a Unique Souvenir
There’s something incredibly rewarding about making your own knife. It’s a physical reminder of the time and effort you put into creating something with your own two hands. Plus, it’s a unique souvenir that you can use and cherish for years to come. Whether you’re making a knife for the first time or you’re an experienced craftsman, the process of creating a knife is a rewarding experience that’s worth trying.
For more detailed information on the knife making process and the experiences offered, visit Circle Bar T Forge and Iron Mountain Metal Craft.
Tips and Tricks for Knife Making
Before you embark on your knife-making adventure in Pigeon Forge, TN, there are a few things you should know. This activity is not just a walk-in experience. It requires planning and preparation to ensure you get the most out of it. Here’s some additional information to help you plan your trip.
Make Reservations in Advance
Knife making classes are popular, and spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season. To ensure you get a spot in the class, it’s important to make reservations in advance.
This is particularly true if you’re planning to visit one of the industry leaders in knife making, such as Iron Mountain Metal Craft or Circle Bar T Forge.
Making a reservation not only secures your spot but also allows the blacksmith shop to prepare for your visit and ensure they have an on-hand selection of knives and materials ready for you.
It’s Suitable for Different Skill Levels
Whether you’re a seasoned blacksmith or a complete beginner, there’s a knife making class for you in Pigeon Forge. The classes cater to different skill levels, from beginners to advanced classes.
For instance, if you’re a beginner, you might start with making a horseshoe knife or a nail knife. If you’re more experienced, you might opt for the dream knife class, where you can create a more complex, hand-poured aluminum knife.
Suitable for Young Children (Specific Classes)
Knife making isn’t just for adults. There are specific classes suitable for young children too. For example, Iron Mountain Metal Craft offers a nail knife class specifically for children aged 5-12.
It’s a great way for kids to learn about the craft and create their own unique metal gifts. However, it’s important to note that safety is paramount, and children should always be supervised during these classes.
How Long Does it Take to Make a Knife?
The time it takes to make a knife can vary depending on the type of knife and the class. Generally, you can expect to spend anywhere from 2 to 4 hours making your knife.
This includes the time it takes to heat the metal, shape the knife, sharpen it, and add any finishing touches.
Remember, knife making is a craft, and it’s not something to be rushed. Take your time, enjoy the process, and you’ll end up with a unique souvenir to take home.
Final Thoughts on Knife Making Near Pigeon Forge
I hope you’ve enjoyed this look into knife making near Pigeon Forge! It offers a unique experience for all ages and skill levels. It’s a great way to learn a new skill, create a unique souvenir, and make lasting memories. So why not give it a try on your next visit to Pigeon Forge, TN?
If you’re unsure about making a knife but are interested in buying collector knives, I’d suggest stoppying by Smoky Mountain Knife Works. Our boys love this huge store.
Not only is it one of the largest knife retailers, but it has a lot of other interesting stuff in their as well. We like to just wander around and take a look at everything. We did get our second oldest a multi tool there and they had some really cool Swiss Army knives that he wasn’t quite ready for, but they were awesome!
So, whether you’re looking for a beginner or advanced class to make railroad spike or horseshoe knives or anything in between, you’re sure to find fun blacksmithing classes in the Pigeon Forge area to make memories that will last a lifetime.
Hope to see you there!
Amanda
