A handmade knife rewards a little care. The routine is simple.
After each use
Wipe the blade clean and dry it completely. Never leave a knife wet or in a leather sheath for long periods.
Oil
A thin film of food-safe mineral oil (or camellia oil) protects carbon steel from rust and keeps Damascus patterns crisp.
Sharpening
Maintain the edge with a fine whetstone at the original angle. Frequent light honing beats rare heavy grinding.
Storage
Store dry, ideally in a wooden box or on a stand — not sealed in leather, which traps moisture.
The handle and sheath
Treat leather sheaths with a leather balm. Wipe wooden handles with a little oil once or twice a year.
Cared for this way, your knife — and its certificate of authenticity — will outlive its first owner.