Alfredo Faccipieri

Knife maker

Crafting blades of steel and soul

Alfredo creates knives meant for daily use by chefs, rather than for display
He considers heat treatment the soul of every blade
His knives were exhibited in the Damasteel Chef Invitational in 2021

Alfredo Faccipieri began to make knives as a passion that soon grew into a vocation, as he sought a hands-on contrast to his digital profession in IT in Vicenza. Now a respected figure in Italy’s knife-making community, through his practice, he has elevated the kitchen knife from a humble tool to a refined object of daily use. Alfredo works with high-performance steels, such as Damasteel and Magnacut, pairing them with stabilised woods, such as maple burl and sycamore. He uses mirror-polished finishes, precise lines, and well executed heat treatment. In 2021, he was the first Italian knife maker invited to participate in the Damasteel Chef Invitational, a prestigious virtual exhibition that features some of the world’s top culinary blade makers. He is also a contributor to the Italian Coltelli Magazine, where he shares insights into custom kitchen knife making.

Interview

©Sergio Libralato

©Sergio Libralato

How did you get into knife making?: I was having lunch with a friend years ago, and he used a handmade knife crafted by his father from recycled materials, including cherry wood from old furniture. That knife, its story and function inspired me to try making one myself.
What does a well-made knife mean to you?: A knife must cut well, above all. A chef’s knife should slice precisely without damaging food, work across all textures, stay sharp and last with care. For me, true sustainability lies in creating a tool built to endure – something recognisable even without my logo.
What misconceptions do people have about custom knives?: People often see them only as weapons. As a craftsman, I see the knife as a tool, like a pen, a ladle or a chisel, made to perform a task. It is a functional object, not something to fear or misjudge.
What advice would you give to someone starting in this craft?: To anyone starting out, I offer two tips. First, study steel – it is your core material. Second, do not rush. Knife making involves mastering many techniques across materials like metal, wood and leather. And remember, the best knife is yet to be made.

Alfredo Faccipieri is an expert artisan: he began his career in 2014 and he started teaching in 2022