In an effort to find our identity we have searched for years and finally think we have found it. We started making historic Scandinavian style knives, then moved into kitchen knives and modern outdoor knives. Our recent interest in trade knives of the 18th century and 19th century settler knives, as well as the traditional knives of Japan, keeps us rooted in historical interests. Then we have Cape Cod with a long nautical history in the heart of North America’s Atlantic maritime region.
Our first impulse was to go with a more modern, tourist oriented, day at the beach or modern home decor look. We really looked hard and dabbled with the modern Cape Cod design aesthetic but it really was not right for us. We are much more rustic and dirty and rough around the edges. We are often asked it if our knives are antiques and we say, “No but they are made from the same type of steel that knives were made from 150 years ago.” Spotted across the Cape are a few remaining hold out old fashioned general mercantile stores. After looking at those stores and spending a day with our friend Matt Beaudoin in his 180 year old historic rope working shop at Mystic Knot Work in Mystic, CT, where we learned about sailors’ knives and tools, we were convinced that the 1800’s mercantile look would translate well to the art and craft fair scene. Crafting a distinct look and display is an important tool to make one memorable and draw people into your shop. It is useful to help sell your story and product. The mercantile theme appeals to both our sense of history, our rustic look and a feel for the early days of the Cape Cod’s nautical and pioneer heritage. Thanks to A Piece of Sandwich for helping us get closer to establishing our aesthetic. Come out and check out our work in progress throughout the year.