Old Carob Forge
Blacksmith & Blacksmithing Experience in Midrand

From the heart of Midrand, South Africa, Liam Rowlands of Old Carob Forge is forging more than just blades—he’s forging legacy. As a professional blacksmith, what began as a personal solution to affording more knives has evolved into a full-time pursuit of rugged artistry and handmade tradition. With two years of professional knifemaking and five years of selling to collectors, friends, and clients, Liam has built a name synonymous with bold, functional, and story-driven blades.

Before founding Old Carob Forge, Liam completed a three-year apprenticeship as a luthier, specializing in guitar repair and customization, with a total of 6 years experience, a background that sharpened his eye for detail, balance, and hands-on craftsmanship. That same precision now lives in every blade he shapes by hand at his workshop.

Liam’s style is rough, rugged, and raw, with a distinctly artistic signature. He prefers high-carbon steels for the way they age and patina over time, giving each knife a story that evolves with use. Handles are crafted from locally sourced South African hardwoods and bone, ensuring every piece not only looks and feels unique but also carries a deep connection to place and origin.

Each knife is hand-forged to profile, heat-treated, ground, and polished at his Midrand forge—never mass-produced, never rushed. Liam even forges his own Damascus steel, favouring a press to achieve the cleanest possible welds. Once the blade is complete, he fits the handle and handcrafts a sheath to match.

One of his proudest creations is his first twist Damascus knife, which he donated as a prize for a fishing competition supporting charity. That single piece sparked a wave of interest in his Damascus work and remains a benchmark of his growth as a maker.

Inspired by historical blades, nature, and function, Liam blends tradition with originality. His personal philosophy is simple: forging gives him full control, and he believes every knife should be made with care, meant to be passed down, and proudly carried.

“Each knife I make is one of a kind. It’s not meant to be flawless, it’s meant to be real. Just like its owner.”