| Name | Izak van der Merwe |
| Brand name | i4G |
| Contact Nr | 0722539377 |
| Area | Cape Town |
| Website | i4G.net |
| talk2me@i4g.net | |
| Knife shows | Yes. |
| 1st knife made | Forged this knife from 5160 with Theunis Greyling on a morning forging workshop. Wild olive burl, blackwood, red liners, and brass pins. |
| Part or Full time | Part-time |
| Signature knives | None. Very new at knife-making and prefer not to do too many of the same type of knife. It is currently only a hobby and therefore I do not need to make quantities for revenue. |
| Signature Steel | I like LO-R 4528 as it is relatively easy to work with, has good characteristics and does not cost an arm and a leg. |
Basic Introduction
I grew up on a sheep farm in the Karoo, where my father always had a pocket knife. I was fascinated by knives from a young age, and we would often make our own knives from old files and other scraps. I never imagined that one day I would be standing at a knife show with some of the greats in knife making. About a year ago, I decided to take a knife-making course. This really fueled my interest in knife making, and I now have some decent beginner equipment. I really enjoy the creative process of knife making, and I love being able to create something useful out of raw materials. I am still learning, but I am slowly getting better. I hope to one day be able to make knives that are as good as those of the greats. In the meantime, I am just enjoying the process and learning as much as I can.
1st Knife
Favourite Steel
LO-R 4528 currently as I have only worked with that. 1070and 5160.
Favourite Handle Materials
It really depends on the knife and whether it needs a whacky Kirinite handle to make it pop or a more traditional hunter that enjoys the classic wood handle. These days we are spoilt for choice with all the materials available to us.
Signature product
I enjoy designs that do not necessarily conform to the standard. I love flowing lines and take a lot of inspiration from everyday shapes and items.
Technical
Most of my materials are currently sourced from local suppliers and other members of the community. I believe in sustainability, which drives my decision-making most of the time.
The future
As a hobby it is a great let-out for me and being creative is an integral part of who I am so for now I am just enjoying that process and experimenting and learning as much as I can. I do want to start focusing more on establishing a brand over the next few years but that will come with time and as I find what types and styles of knives really appeal to me. I love the forging process and making other forged items will definitely remain a part of what I do.