Backcountry Blade: Knife-Making Workshop
Brought to you in partnership with Will Kraemer and the Redwing Ranch Autumn Series. Craft your own knife, unplug from the noise, and reconnect with fire, steel, and the land.
Workshop Overview
Join us September for Backcountry Blade, a five-day immersive knife-making workshop curated and hosted by Redwing Ranch in Gardner, Colorado. This rustic, unplugged experience is led by multi-skilled craftsman and outdoorsman Will Kraemer of Kraemer Metalworks.
Whether you're looking to build practical craft skills, reconnect with hands-on work, or step into a slower rhythm, this workshop offers the chance to forge your own blade from steel, surrounded by rivers, ridgelines, and good company.
Participants will:
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Learn the complete process of knife-making: forging, shaping, grinding, heat-treating, and finishing
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Work directly with Will in a small-group setting
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Stay in beautiful ranch housing and eat nourishing meals prepared by an on-site chef
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Enjoy time by the river, evening fires, and walks on quiet pasture roads
This workshop is limited to 5 participants and includes on-ranch lodging at the Malachite House (with overflow housing if needed). All meals and materials included.
Who This Is For
This experience is built for anyone looking to:
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Learn knife-making or blacksmithing basics from an expert
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Reconnect with tools, and the outdoors
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Take a break from screens and the rush of everyday life
No experience required. Moderate hand strength and ability to stand/work for extended periods helpful.
What’s Included
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All meals from Wednesday dinner to Sunday breakfast
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4 nights of on-ranch lodging
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Full set of knife-making materials
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All tools and equipment provided in on-site shop
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Optional access to river & ranch lands during free time
What to Bring
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Close-toed boots or work shoes
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Clothing that can handle sparks and grit (100% cotton recommended)
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Layers for hot days and chilly mornings
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Hat, headlamp or flashlight
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Fishing gear & valid license (optional)
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Notebook or journal
No laptops or screens needed—this is an unplugged workshop.
Pricing & Registration This workshop is limited to 5 participants. Ticket includes all lodging, food, instruction, and materials.
Registration opens July 2025.
Join our email list to be the first to know when registration opens.