Copper Damascus: A Laser Experiment and a Mountain of Pre-Orders

We’ve all seen the amazing work coming out of the Rogue Blades community – the bladesmiths and makers who aren't afraid to push the limits of what’s possible. Lately, that’s involved lasers, and Timothy Dyck is diving deep. He’s not just etching patterns; he's trying to create something truly different: copper Damascus. And, as you’ll see, it's a journey fueled by pre-orders and a whole lot of train rail.

Dyck’s been busy. Really busy. He's fulfilling a massive backlog of orders for his 1918 trench lighters – forged from reclaimed 1918 train rail. The sheer volume of demand is staggering; he’s practically exhausted the available rail. He’s planning to release the remaining inventory in limited drops to maintain quality and avoid overselling, a smart move for any knife maker scaling up production. It speaks to the value of his work and the hunger for authentic, hand-crafted goods within the Rogue Blades community.

But let’s get to the core experiment: the copper Damascus. Dyck’s experimenting with using his laser to inlay copper into a billet, a technique he’s previously explored with 1090 powder. The potential for a unique, visually striking pattern is there, and it's a worthy pursuit for a budding Blade Angel.

The video details his process, which involves layering 1080 steel, copper, and mild steel, then using the laser to etch a pattern. He's opting to encase the copper within a canister, a good approach for controlling the process and preventing overheating. The forge work is straightforward, a quick weld-up followed by a press to bond the layers. He’s wisely anticipating potential issues and adjusting his technique accordingly – a hallmark of a skilled bladesmith.

Beyond the technical aspects, Dyck also touches on the importance of self-care and maintaining a healthy body while pursuing demanding craftwork. He credits AG1, a powdered nutritional supplement, with helping him avoid burnout and illness during a particularly intense period of production. It’s a subtle but important reminder that even the most dedicated makers need to prioritize their well-being.

For those of us who appreciate the artistry of bladesmithing, it's inspiring to see makers like Dyck constantly innovating and pushing the envelope. Whether you’re a seasoned Blade Angel or just starting your journey, there's always something to learn from these explorations. Consider joining a Field Trip to a bladesmithing shop or attending a Live Workshop at a HolyPlace to connect with the community and hone your skills.

Ready to level up your own craft? Find a Blade Angel near you, sign up for a forge class, list a custom commission, or claim your creator profile on Sovereign.ink. The forge awaits.