Today we’d like to introduce you to Swain Scales.
Hi Swain, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I went to a small blacksmithing school in Colorado. I started smithing because I had always been fascinated with the craft and needed something to do for myself while raising my daughter.
My family and I moved to Warrensburg almost 8 years ago and I started smithing again as a hobby because I really missed.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I wouldn’t say smooth. Smithing is hard and bladesmithing has become fairly popular in recent years. It’s taking me a long time to find my style and a balance between functionality and aesthetic.
It’s a real struggle to make time to get in the shop. I own my own business, my daughter is in virtual school from home, my wife and I are vendors at the local farmers market where we sell produce, cut flowers and handmade kitchen cutlery.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Well, I’d say primarily I see myself as a bladesmith when it comes to my art but I do a lot of different things. My background in bladesmithing is blacksmithing. I’m in the forge on most days when the weather conditions cooperate.
I like to make culinary knives and ceremonial knives mostly but I do a fair amount of knives for everyday carry.
I’m starting to work on some bigger pieces and that’s been a lot of fun.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
Oh I’m sure I left a lot out but nothing comes to mind. I’m really nervous about doing an interview and I’m still not sure why I’m doing this. I’m not one for limelight and I’m a bit introverted
Pricing:
- I try to keep my price point as low as I can for folks. Most of my knives are somewhere between $100-400
