I believe in good food,
good friends,
well-made cutlery built to last and using intention to present a memorable meal.

Each of my knives are a true labor of love and they usually take up to 60 hours over several days— to craft from selection of steel to finished product…I started making knives because I love to cook. In order to prepare a wonderful, mesmerizing meal you must have the proper tools. I believe Damascus steel makes the best blades for culinary knives.
The steel’s origin and history, combined with the hand-forged process, ensure each piece becomes a unique, custom blade. This is my life’s work: to create a knife that gives you joy whenever you use it because it’s beautiful and functional.

Time is precious.
The right tool makes life easier. I want everyone to feel the satisfaction and efficiency that comes from using a gorgeous, well-made sharp knife.

The tools I make can be used to save time as well as present a bountiful, memorable meal to nourish the soul.

My name is John Phillips (he/ him) and I’m a father, an artist, a gardener, a craftsman, a friend and a chef: creating, loving and living in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Nice to meet you. Schedule a specialized appointment with me here.

While you’re here, check out Primeaux—an expansion of my custom knife business.