Dark Timber Custom Knives Website

Written by

Carissa O'Connell

June 2024

Objective: Create a visually stunning website that highlights the bladesmith's expertise, showcases their unique handcrafted knives, and appeals to outdoor enthusiasts and collectors.

In this exciting project, I have the privilege of working alongside Peter Kohler, a skilled bladesmith, to design and develop his very first website from scratch. Together, we are embarking on a collaborative journey to craft a digital presence that not only showcased Peter's exceptional professional skills but also reflects his passion for bladesmithing. I continue to work closely with Peter to understand his unique needs and goals, ensuring that every aspect of the website design and development process is tailored to his vision. Through open communication, creative problem-solving, and a deep understanding of Peter's craft, we are working on creating a website that truly embodies the essence of his brand - Dark Timber Custom Knives.

Design Requirements:

• Simple, clean, and to the point: A minimalistic design that allows the bladesmith's work to take center stage
• High-quality images: Showcase the knives in a well-lit, high-contrast environment to highlight the craftsmanship and details
• Easy navigation: Organize the portfolio into categories (e.g., camp knives, choppers, skinners) for easy browsing
• Personal touch: Include a brief story or description about the bladesmith's inspiration, process, and passion for their craft

Learning how to help a bladesmith promote their work and story has taught me how to design a website that makes it easy, simple, and appealing for people who dont utilize the web often.

The knife gallery serves as a visual showcase of the various knife styles crafted by Peter Kohler, allowing users to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship behind each piece. The filter enhances the user experience by enabling visitors to easily navigate and explore specific types of knives, making it simpler to find designs that resonate with their preferences.

The blog on darktimbercustomknives.net highlights various knife-making events, shares personal stories from Peter Kohler's journey as a bladesmith, and introduces new knife designs, showcasing the craftsmanship and evolution of his work.

Social Media Sharing: The blog integrates social media posts from Peter Kohler's Instagram account (@darktimbercustoms), allowing visitors to see real-time updates and images related to his knife-making process and events. This connection helps to create a community around his work.

Check out the website Dark Timber Custom Knives!