It’s back-to-school time—time to head back to the workshop! Through a series of articles, this issue invites you to tour workshops, discover creative processes, and gain an appreciation for the hard work required to build a solid reputation in the cutlery trade. Discover the passion, high standards, dedication, resilience, and broad perspective on the craft demonstrated by master cutlers as they strive to remain among the best despite the passing years and the vagaries of the market. Laurent Gaillard, along with Tom Ploppert, Pierre Reverdy, Peter Johnsson, and Wim Werner, reveal some of their secrets here… A cutler for over thirty years, Laurent Gaillard has weathered the trials of a challenging market and remains today—thanks to his success and his generosity in mentoring younger craftspeople—the leading figure in the trade: the boss!
Also in this issue: more stunning photos and fascinating stories:
- As in every issue, we bring you the latest news from the cutlery world, some great buying ideas, and a look back at the trade shows from the summer of 2026.
- @fandecouteaux’s “Favorites” section is dedicated this time to a truly brilliant, innovative, and creative brand: Piratech.
- Next up is an interview with a genius creator, the Berlin-based designer Vulpex Knives.
- A bushcraft knife for less than €80? That’s right—we’re defying the impossible! In this issue’s Consumer Report section , we tested several surprisingly effective bushcraft knives priced under €80!
- Swedish sword maker Peter Johnsson invites us to reflect on the creative process through his personal experience, inspired by the traces of history…
- The sheath is an essential component of the knife, which the manufacturer VD Cuir crafts with meticulous care and dedication
- Our feature on the collection reveals the story of a discerning man who, as a patron of the arts, surrounds himself with the finest pieces from the greatest designers…see for yourself!
- Another great cutler, Pierre Reverdy , explains here, step by step, the creation of an exceptional piece: the “Phare de l’île” knife.
- A blacksmith’s workshop wouldn’t be worthy of the name without the drop hammer. Here, we’d like to introduce you to this essential tool, a legacy of centuries of blacksmithing.
- As in every issue, we invite you to meet the cutlers we’ve selected for you: Laurent Gaillard, the boss; Tom Popplert, the American; and Wim Werner, the creative one. Three distinct and instantly recognizable worlds!
- And finally, let’s take a step back to explore another artistic craft. Here, discover the astonishing and stunning combination of volcanic stone and fire by Céline Martinant.
