Knifesmiths from all over South Africa exhibited their prized work at the annual Bloemfontein Knife Show that was held at Bobbiespark on 3 and 4 November.
In the competition that coincided with the event, the best-made knives were recognised and their smiths awarded prizes.
Tiaan Groenewald, president of the Bloemfontein Knife Makers Club, earned many awards for the knives he entered for the competition. His dedication and precision earned him the titles of overall best knife maker on show, best knife on show, best ornamental fixed blade knife on show, best fixed blade work knife, and best fighting knife.
The young Jean Wilke from Pretoria said he was inspired to make knives when he saw the very first television episode of Forged in Fire.
Just after he finished matric, he took up knife making as a full-time career in 2020.
He was the runner-up for the best fixed blade work knife and fighting knife on the show.
His beautifully forged knife won the prize for best forged knife on show.
Hennie du Plessis won the best work folder and best art folder prizes.
JD van Deventer won the prize for the best slip joint and Jaime Mierke the novice prize.
