Knifemaker
Johandré de Vries
Pretoria, Gauteng
Exhibiting at Safari Knife Show 2026. 27 & 28 November 2026, Safari Nursery.
In Johandré’s own words
From making wooden knives at 13 to crafting my first stock-removal knife with Oom Gawie and Thinus Herbst in 2023, at the age of 16, what was once a childhood dream is now becoming my reality.
March 2026 marked a major turning point in my journey when Jean Wilke offered me an apprenticeship at Fire Goby Forge after I attended his two-day knifemaking course in February 2026.
Just seven months into my mentorship with Jean, I won Best Working Fixed Blade at my very first solo knife show, the Baobab Knife Show, in September 2026.
In October 2026, I successfully completed the two-week ABS Intro to Bladesmithing course with Kevin and Heather Harvey and was officially promoted to Junior Knifemaker!
A fast learner with a perfectionist mindset, I am driven to continually refine my skills and master my craft.
Written for this directory in 2026.
Past work
These pieces show Johandré’s style; most have found owners. Ask what’s on the bench now or commission your own.
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2 photos
Integral bolster with a hidden tang Sold
Steel: 5160 · Handle: Wild Olive Burl · Length: 112mm blade · Flat grind with convex edge
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2 photos
Interrupted Quench Hunter Sold
Steel: 1095 · Handle: Wenge wood · Length: 102 mm blade · Hollow grind
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Fixed blade Sold
Steel: 5160 · Handle: White Corian · Length: 141 mm blade · Hollow grind
