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My Story

The Beginning (2014)

My interest in blacksmithing began in 2014 when I decided to attend a blacksmithing course at a folk high school. This sparked a lifelong passion for working with my hands.

 

 My first blacksmithing projects included some tools and decorative items. I also made an anvil from railroad tracks and a forge from a truck rim.

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Skills development

After my initial steps in blacksmithing, I didn’t stop. I completed several courses related to knife and puukko crafting under the guidance of experienced masters. These studies helped me understand not only the technical aspects but also the philosophy behind knife-making.
 

 In 2023, I graduated as a puukko smith from Raseko, the only institution in Finland that trains puukko smiths and master puukko smiths.

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Establishing My Own Workshop

After my first courses, I built my first workshop at home, creating all the necessary working conditions.

Unique projects and community activities

In 2021, I designed and crafted the Nurmijärvi Puukko. The idea was to create a unique handmade puukko model that Nurmijärvi had never seen before.

 

 I also participate in various events, such as the Puukko Days, the Hyvinkää Puukko Event, and the Custom Knife Show in Tampere organized by the Knife Makers’ Guild.

Additionally, I attend local events like Rajamäki Days.

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Today

I’m also involved in the local art event Taidekieppi, where artisans and artists showcase their workshops and galleries. Every year, hundreds of people visit Taidekieppi to explore local culture. I participate as a blacksmith, displaying my products and holding forging demonstrations.

Toni Kilpinen makes a knife in his workshop

My story

The Beginning (2014)

My interest in blacksmithing began in 2014 when I decided to attend a blacksmithing course at a folk high school. This sparked a lifelong passion for working with my hands.

 

 My first blacksmithing projects included some tools and decorative items. I also made an anvil from railroad tracks and a forge from a truck rim.

Toni Kilpinen at the knife exhibition

Establishing My Own Workshop

After my first courses, I built my first workshop at home, creating all the necessary working conditions.

Skills development

After my initial steps in blacksmithing, I didn’t stop. I completed several courses related to knife and puukko crafting under the guidance of experienced masters. These studies helped me understand not only the technical aspects but also the philosophy behind knife-making.
 

In 2023, I graduated as a puukko smith from Raseko, the only institution in Finland that trains puukko smiths and master puukko smiths.

Toni Kilpinen with his knife in hand.

Today

I’m also involved in the local art event Taidekieppi, where artisans and artists showcase their workshops and galleries. Every year, hundreds of people visit Taidekieppi to explore local culture. I participate as a blacksmith, displaying my products and holding forging demonstrations.

Unique projects and community activities

In 2021, I designed and crafted the Nurmijärvi Puukko. The idea was to create a unique handmade puukko model that Nurmijärvi had never seen before.

 

I also participate in various events, such as the Puukko Days, the Hyvinkää Puukko Event, and the Custom Knife Show in Tampere organized by the Knife Makers’ Guild. Additionally, I attend local events like Rajamäki Days.

Facts

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Facts

2014

Started blacksmithing

2015

Made my first puukko

Education

2023: Graduated as a Bladesmith

2014–2025: Completed 19 courses

Awards

2021: Won the Finnish Championship in Puukko Making

2022: Second place and honorable mention in the Chef’s Knife Competition

2022: Third place in the Puukko Society’s Masters’ Series

2023: Received the Design from Finland mark

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Motto

My Father used to say that Kilpiset do what they want and others what they can.  This is the motto I have tried to follow

Certificates

Kisäkkinkirja Certificate
Kunniakirja Certificate - 1 place
Kunniakirja Certificate - 3 place
Second place and honorable mention in the Chef’s Knife Competition
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