What Is A Fettling Knife Used For?
What is a Fettling Knife?
A fettling knife is a specialized tool used in pottery and ceramics. According to the Ceramic Dictionary, “A fettling knife is used for trimming, smoothing and leveling out uneven surfaces on dry clay, bisque and fired glazes caused by beading or crawling.” (Source)
Fettling knives have thin, flexible blades that allow potters and ceramic artists to delicately trim and shape pieces. The blade tapers to a fine point which gives precision control for detailed work. Fettling knives are primarily used for greenware (unfired clay) as well as smoothing out issues with glazes after firing. They help give ceramic pieces clean, professional looking edges and surfaces.
Compared to other ceramic tools like ribbon tools or loops, fettling knives have a sharper edge and finer tip for more intricate trimming and smoothing work. Their flexibility also allows them to bend into curved areas. Fettling knives are an essential tool for most ceramic artists to refine and perfect their pieces.
History of the Fettling Knife
The origin of the fettling knife dates back to the 14th century in England, when it started being used for finishing pottery and smoothing rough edges[1]. The term “fettling” comes from the Middle English word “fetelen” which means to neaten or put in order. Back then, fettling knives were made out of steel and had a curved blade optimized for scraping curves and fine detailing work.
In the early days, fettling knives were an essential tool for potters and ceramic workers for finishing their pieces. The slightly flexible steel blade allowed artisans to smooth away rough areas and trim excess clay after firing. Using a fettling knife was prefered over sanding as it gave more control and precision. While designs have evolved over the centuries, the original purpose and use has remained largely the same.
[1] https://www.answers.com/Q/How_did_the_fettling_knife_get_its_name
Uses of a Fettling Knife
A fettling knife has many uses across various crafts and industries. The primary uses of a fettling knife are:
Cleaning Castings – Fettling knives excel at removing excess material and burrs from metal castings. The flexible blade allows crafters to get into tight corners and curves while removing mold lines and flashes from cast metal parts before finishing and assembly. Fettling knives help clean castings faster and more efficiently than files or abrasives.
Model Making – Model makers use fettling knives for shaping and refining plastic, resin, and wood parts for scale models like cars, trains, planes, and figures. The thin, curved blade allows precise control for detail work. A fettling knife is useful for tasks like removing seam lines, trimming flash, and general smoothing.
Wood Carving and Whittling – Fettling knives are excellent beginner whittling and carving knives. The slim, flexible blade allows good control over cuts and is forgiving for those learning proper carving techniques. The blade is useful for initial shaping as well as finer detailed cuts on items like spoons, bowls, and decorative pieces. It can make precise cuts not easily achieved with bulkier carving knives.
In general, fettling knives are valued in craftwork for their ability to make clean, accurate cuts; easily access tight spaces; and smooth/shape materials with precision. They are especially useful for delicate and detailed hand work where control is paramount.
Source: https://www.thestudiomanager.com/posts/tag/Fettling+Knife
Fettling Knife Design
Fettling knives have a characteristic shape and design to allow for various uses in crafting and sculpting. The key design elements include:
Shape: Fettling knives typically have a straight or slightly curved blade that is widest at the base and tapers to a point at the tip. This shape allows for both broader scraping strokes as well as more precise trimming and cutting.[1]
Size: Blades are commonly 4-6 inches in length, providing enough length for leverage and reach but still being compact for detail work. Shorter 2-3 inch blades are also available for intricate jobs.[2]
Materials: The blade is made from hardened steel, providing strength and durability. A softer steel blend may be used for more delicate work. The handle is often made of wood, plastic, or rubber for comfortable gripping.
The combination of the shape, size, and materials makes the fettling knife well-suited for a variety of workshop tasks involving clay, metal, wood, and other materials.
[1] https://flaxart.com/fettling-knife-4-25/
[2] https://www.thestudiomanager.com/posts/tag/Fettling+Knife
Using a Fettling Knife Safely
When using a fettling knife, it is important to follow proper safety techniques to avoid injuries. Fettling knives are very sharp tools that require caution.
Always cut away from your body and use a cutting board or other protected surface. Grip the knife firmly and make sure your fingers are clear of the blade’s path. Work slowly and carefully, avoiding rushing through tasks. Wearing cut-resistant gloves can help protect your hands.
Safety glasses are also recommended to shield your eyes from flying debris when cutting. An apron, smock or shop coat provides an extra barrier as well.
Take care when passing a fettling knife to someone else. Set it down instead of handing it directly. Store fettling knives in knife blocks or sheaths when not in use.
Common fettling knife injuries include lacerations to the fingers or hands. Using improper form, working too quickly, or lapses in concentration can lead to accidents. A cut from a freshly sharpened fettling knife is extremely sharp, so seek medical attention for deep cuts.
With training on proper knife handling technique and safety awareness, fettling knives can be used effectively for sculpting, trimming, and smoothing ceramic work.
Sharpening a Fettling Knife
Sharpening a fettling knife is an important skill to maintain its functionality. There are a few techniques and tools commonly used to sharpen a fettling knife:
One of the most common ways to sharpen a fettling knife is with a sharpening stone. You’ll want to start with a coarse grit stone to grind down and reshape the edge, then progress to finer grit stones to refine the edge. Hold the knife at a consistent angle against the stone and draw the blade across the stone in a sweeping motion away from yourself. Apply light pressure as you sharpen and check for burrs along the edge to ensure you are sharpening evenly. Use oil or water to lubricate the stone. This forum post provides some good tips for using a sharpening stone.
Another option is to use a bench grinder with a sharpening wheel attachment. This allows you to reshape the edge quickly. Make sure to cool the blade with water to prevent overheating and weakening the metal. Finish up sharpening by hand with a stone to refine the edge.
There are also sharpening systems available with angled guides that help sharpen the blade at a consistent angle. Many of these have multiple grits to progress from coarse sharpening to polishing the edge.
No matter the sharpening method, take care not to overheat the blade which can damage the temper. Use light pressure and don’t allow the edge to turn blue. Honing the edge frequently with a steel will maintain sharpness between full sharpening sessions.
Caring for a Fettling Knife
Proper care and maintenance is important for ensuring your fettling knife remains in optimal working condition. Here are some tips for cleaning, oiling, and storing your fettling knife:
Cleaning: Wipe down the blade after each use, removing any clay or residue from the cutting edge. Use a damp cloth or paper towel. Avoid submerging the handle in water. For tougher buildup, use a mild detergent and warm water. Rinse and dry thoroughly after cleaning.
Oiling: Apply a thin coat of mineral oil along the blade after cleaning. This prevents rusting and keeps the blade lubricated for smooth cuts. Wipe away any excess oil. Some specialty knife oils, like camellia oil, can also be used.
Storage: Store the fettling knife in a dry, room temperature area out of direct sunlight. Avoid exposing the blade to moisture or humidity. Store in a protective sheath or knife block. Don’t wrap tightly in cloth which can trap moisture. Proper storage keeps the blade honed and prevents damage to the handle.
With regular cleaning, oiling, and mindful storage practices, a quality fettling knife can last for many years of effective use in the pottery studio.
Common Brands
There are several well-known manufacturers of quality fettling knives for potters and ceramic artists. Some of the top brands include:
Xiamen – This Chinese company produces affordable fettling knives in a variety of sizes. The carbon steel blades keep a sharp edge.
Kemper – Kemper is known for its high quality “hard” fettling knives with sturdy steel blades made in Germany. The F97 model has a 4.5″ blade.
SHUK – This U.K. company produces the popular “Ribbon Tool” fettling knife. It has a thin, flexible stainless steel blade perfect for delicate clay work.
Brent is known for ergonomic handles on tools like their #5 Fettling Knife with a thin flexible blade.
These major brands produce quality knives that hold their edge through extended ceramic use. Prices range from budget models under $10 to high end knives over $50.
Purchasing a Fettling Knife
Fettling knives can be purchased from a variety of art supply stores, ceramic suppliers, and online retailers. Some places to buy a fettling knife include:
- Local art supply stores – Many carry basic fettling knives from brands like Kemper.
- Online retailers like Amazon, Blick Art Materials, Clayscapes Pottery, and Sheffield Pottery – These have a wider selection of knife styles, brands, and price points. Popular brands include Kemper, Xiem, Mudtools, and Speedball.
- Ceramic suppliers like Highwater Clays and Axner – These specialize in pottery tools and equipment.
When purchasing a fettling knife, look for one with a blade made of hardened steel for durability and a handle comfortable for your grip. The blade shape and length depends on your specific carving needs. A classic triangular or spear point blade 2-3 inches long is a standard all-purpose choice. Consider a rounded tip blade if working on more delicate surfaces. The handle material (wood, plastic, rubber) is personal preference.
Expect to pay $5-$30 for a fettling knife. Less expensive knives under $10 can still be suitable for beginners and hobbyists. Invest in a higher end knife in the $15-$30 range for frequent ceramic work where a sharper, more durable blade is needed.
Be sure to also purchase a knife sheath to safely store and carry your new fettling knife.
Fettling Knife Alternatives
While fettling knives are specially designed for ceramic work, there are some other tools that can substitute for a fettling knife in a pinch:
Metal scrapers or putty knives can be used for trimming and smoothing clay. According to Art Alternatives, “The blade of the soft knife may be sharpened frequently with a wet stone for more delicate trimming.”1 Putty knives come in a variety of sizes and can be sharpened to work similarly.
Surform tools or rifflers are also used in ceramics for filing down seams and smoothing surfaces. The abrasive surface can take the place of a fettling knife for removing excess clay.2
For intricate sculpting and detailing, dental tools like carvers and picks can substitute for a fettling knife. These stainless steel tools allow precise shaping and engraving when working with clay.3
While not as ideal, an X-Acto knife, box cutter, or other small blade can also be used. These tools require frequent replacement of the blades as they will dull quickly on clay. They work better on leather-hard clay rather than wet clay.1
