Introduction to Knife Making

Learn the fundamentals of Damascus steel knife-making with Pete Mattila. Forge blades at this weekend course in Hobart.

At this intensive weekend course, students will forge and heat-treat Damascus steel blades.

Working over the anvil, learn hand skills via hammer and tongs.

This course covers basic blacksmithing techniques specific to knife-making along with explanations of simple metallurgy.

It takes place at the picturesque waterfront slip yards of Battery Point in Hobart, Tasmania.

Each knifemaking event allows only five students. This ensures quality in teaching and safe working practice.

Lunches will be included. Please contact us to advise of any dietary requirements.

Responsibility to teach and share with others in my community and abroad is a part of my arts and trade practice. This fits in with the ethos of self-empowerment through skills. Mattila Studio is a safe space where creativity thrives and ideas are realized.

PLEASE NOTE Students are to provide their PPE (safety gear) including Eye protection, Ear protection, Work boots – steel-toe-capped, Leather gloves, and Cotton clothes – nothing synthetic. Please also bring a water bottle with you.

Students must be in a fit working condition. If you have any health-related issues that could inhibit your ability to work, please discuss with Pete before proceeding with the order.

What's on:

Events and points of interest around Hobart.

5 Apr 2025 - 29 Jun 2025
Inside Pompeii: Origins of a European Way of Life
Inside Pompeii: Origins of a European Way of Life is a breathtaking exhibition showcasing the evocative photography of Luigi Spina.
23 May 2025 - 16 Jun 2025
Max Mueller | Emerging Artist | Solo Exhibition
Handmark invites you to experience emerging artist Max Mueller's inaugural solo exhibition at Handmark.
23 May 2025 - 12 Oct 2025
Oliffe Richmond
An exhibition of works by Oliffe Richmond (1919–1977) who was a Tasmanian-born sculptor who built a distinguished career in Britain.
17 Mar 2025 - 21 Sep 2025
On Island
On Island is an exhibition of artworks that respond to Tasmania/Lutruwita from a wide range of perspectives. All of the artworks are from the Tasmanian
20 Mar 2025 - 27 Jul 2025
The World of Beetles
The World of Beetles exhibition celebrates the incredible diversity, beauty, and scientific importance of beetles. At the heart of the exhibition is the work of
2 May 2025 - 26 Sep 2025
Healthy Hobart – Healthy Kids: Dance
Join in for some fun and learn new ideas to get your kids active in your home.
1 Mar 2022 - 31 Aug 2025
Phoenix Creations Wooden Spoon Carving Workshops
Welcome to a day of creative mindfulness with David and Michelle of Phoenix Creations. In their small studio tucked away just 2 minutes from Cygnet's
15 Feb 2025 - 16 Feb 2026
Théo Mercier: MIRRORSCAPE
Five countries, five exhibitions: France, Germany, Estonia, Denmark, and now Australia. The latest iteration of Jeremy Shaw’s new venture arrives at Mona.
30 May 2025 - 30 May 2025
YARC LIVE: Woolf Wattern, Sound Disorientation, and In Lieu
Join us for the next YARC LIVE event!
15 Nov 2024 - 27 Jun 2025
Hobart Twilight Market Brooke Street Pier
The Hobart Twilight Markets showcases a wide variety of Tasmanian eats, drinks and artisans, along with live music from local talent.
All events