Today we’d like to introduce you to Chris Thorson.
Hi Chris, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started making Scandinavian-style fixed-blade knives in 2015. It was part of a deeper dive into my own cultural background: Swedish, Norwegian, and Danish. My wife gifted me a “kit” that included a Swedish blade, a block of masur birch, a couple of antler pieces, and some leather. No instructions, just the pieces to make a Northern Sámi knife and sheath. After finishing that first knife, I started sourcing materials and taking classes to learn more about the craft.
I enrolled at Northhouse Folk School in Grand Marias, MN, and took a class at the American Swedish Institute in Minneapolis. I connected with local makers and knife makers in the Nordic countries. Interest grew, and I started selling through a few Minnesota-based retailers in addition to friends and colleagues.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I’m not sure I would have stuck with it if it were a smooth road. The challenges keep it interesting, and overcoming creative blocks is part of the process. Some of the tools I use to get past these roadblocks include getting outside for a hike or bike ride. Staying connected with other makers is always a good thing.
Some challenges are easy to overcome; how should I design the look and shape of a knife handle or sheath? That’s just experimentation. It can be hard to get materials. Most of what I use in my knives is sourced from northern Europe and the Nordic countries. Prices have risen due to tariffs, and availability can be a challenge. I do go through periods when I’m not making anything, but I am always thinking about new ideas or ways to improve the work and the process.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I focus on a specific knife style called a puukko. A puukko is a traditional, all-purpose Nordic knife with a distinct curved cutting edge, straight spine, and comfortable hidden-tang handle. It is designed for everyday tasks like woodworking, food prep, and outdoor utility. I also make small leather goods: keychains, valet trays, leather cuffs. I also love teaching and showing others my process. I think I learn just as much, if not more, when I teach than my students.
Outside of my passion for Scandinavian knife making and leather working, I work professionally in Creative Operations in creative agencies and printing companies. Creative Ops centers around people, process, and technology. I have always been curious about how the work gets made. I love trying something new and seeing what happens and how people react.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
It’s a long list, and I’m sure I’ll forget to mention someone, so I’m going to break it into categories and list only first names. First, my family: Lara and our two boys, Bergen and Tryggve have given me the time and support to travel down this road. I had some amazing teachers, including Dave, Gene, and Heather. Retail shop owners: Eric, Alex & Dan, Sara & Scott, Joseph, Bill, and Merry. Business owners who have hosted maker events: Alex & Margo, and Steve. I have met so many wonderful people along the way and continue to do so. John, Bill, and I share ideas and techniques. Cody was there from day one. Paul, Stephen, Ali, Ann, Hunter, Helga, Kate, Nish, and many others have been early and long-time supporters of my work. I’m grateful for everyone I’ve met and all the support and encouragement I’ve received on this exploration.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thorsonknifeworks/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thorsonknifeworks
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thorsonchris/
