Today we’d like to introduce you to John Clark.
Hi John, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I began making knives in 2014 but became more mainstream in 2016. I am a full-time police officer and was looking for a part-time hobby in my free time. In regards to the knives, however, my journey started when I bought a rather popular brand of the knife from a local store. I only had it for less than a day, and the tip broke when using it the first time. I then looked into Youtube how-to videos on how I could fix it. While doing so, I noticed I had all the necessary equipment and materials to make my own at my family farm workshop. Ever since then, I have been trying to get it right. Regarding my company name (12 Stitch Blades), I was making my first ever custom knife for a customer. I was rushing to finish it, so rather than taking my time, I sharpened the blade fully and then tried to drill pin holes for a handle in the blade in my drill press. The blade got stuck in the moving drill press and turned into a propeller blade. My hand was nearby and was sliced open. I was then rushed to the hospital. The ER doctor that stitched my hand back together stated that I had no internal damage to my hand because the blade was entirely too sharp, almost like a scalpel. He then coined the phrase “That is a good 12 Stitch Blade,” and the name stuck. Since, then I have made hundreds of knives of different shapes, designs, and materials and was even allowed to star in the hit History Channel TV Show “Forged in Fire” in 2018. I ensure that every blade I make is one I would be willing to use myself and never compromise on quality.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Business is usually up and down, and I have to make time away from my full-time job to complete the order.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
What sets me apart is my willingness to take on nearly any challenge that is presented to me regarding custom builds of blades. With that being said, however, my willingness to let the customer know when I feel that a piece that is requested is not something I feel comfortable with making or that it would be something I would be proud of. On more than one occasion, I have refused a project, ensuring the customer that it simply is something that could not do justice in the making.
We love to hear about your fond memories of growing up.
My dad took me hunting for the first time.
Pricing:
- Custom prices vary on the build
Contact Info:
- Website:12stitchblades.com
- Instagram: @12stitchblades
- Facebook: 12 Stitch Blades
- Other: Tik Tok: 12stitchblades_236
