Today we’d like to introduce you to John Phillips.
Hi John, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey into knifemaking began during my early years as a sous chef. I was captivated by the sight of chefs wielding their elegant Japanese knives and knife rolls. This curiosity sparked a deep interest in understanding what made these knives special. The first blade shape that caught my eye was the Usuba, a single-bevel knife known for its “thin blade,” which is ideal for slicing vegetables with remarkable precision. After my initial fascination with the Usuba, I soon discovered the elegant Santoku. This knife is an amazing fusion of beauty and functionality. Its design showcases the meticulous precision and craftsmanship of Japanese tradition. The Santoku is exceptionally versatile and adept at easily performing specific tasks such as slicing, dicing, and mincing. This fascination with engineering in cooking led me to a pivotal moment where I yearned to merge art, function, and grace into something that could be both cherished and inspiring. I then discovered knifemaking, a field rich with possibilities and creativity. I was so enthralled by the depth and breadth of this craft that I decided to dive in headfirst and pursue it professionally. I set out to create the perfect tool for every kitchen task. First, I started by building a studio in my garage and set to making all sorts of kitchen knives. To broaden my career, I began participating in regional and national craft shows while focusing on expanding my network. I made it a point to visit restaurants, engaging with chefs one-on-one and encouraging them to try my knives. This hands-on approach honed my skills and deepened my understanding of what chefs seek in their tools. It was a journey of discovery, connecting with the heart of the culinary world, and shaping my craft to meet the exacting standards of those who wield it. A significant milestone in my career was becoming a champion on the television show “Forged in Fire.” This experience was instrumental in showcasing my talents to a broader audience and fueled my career by providing a platform for recognition.
Some of the most rewarding accomplishments in my career include having my knives featured in New York Times best-selling cookbooks, like Chef Sean Brock’s “South,” and creating custom knives for celebrities and chefs I’ve long admired. The daily joy of bringing my visions to life and knowing that my creations are loved and cherished is incredibly fulfilling.
Damasteel, based in Sweden, is renowned for its high-quality and beautifully patterned stainless Damascus steel. The company specializes in producing this unique type of steel, which is highly sought after for its durability, corrosion resistance, and distinctive appearance. Knifemakers and enthusiasts worldwide prize Damasteel for its ability to create blades that are not only functional and long-lasting but also works of art; a humble yet significant milestone in my journey was being honored at the International Damasteel Chef Invitational. Receiving the Best in Show award not once but twice, along with accolades for the best bread knife (twice) and best cleaver, has been humbling and affirming. These recognitions have played a pivotal role in expanding my customer base and enhancing my reputation as a maker of fine knives. I am grateful for these opportunities to showcase my work and for the support and recognition from peers and enthusiasts.
My journey in knifemaking has undergone a significant transformation. Initially, my focus was on creating unique, one-of-a-kind pieces. However, with my latest venture, Primeaux, I have embraced old-world techniques and new technology to focus on a handmade production-centric approach. This shift has opened doors to greater collaboration with my talented team, fostering an environment rich in creativity and innovation. At Primeaux, we’re not just making knives; we’re redefining the experience of knife ownership. We’ve developed a custom knife designer, a tool that empowers you to craft your dream knife. This platform allows you to select from various blade styles, including Santoku, Mini-cleaver, Chef, Petty, and K-tip Gyuto. You can also choose your preferred handle type and bolster material.
Our website offers an immersive experience akin to Nike’s Design Your Own sneaker concept but for knives. Here, you can design your knife in a dynamic 3D environment, unleashing your creativity and bringing your vision to life. This innovative approach to knifemaking blends artistry with practicality, staying true to my passion for crafting exceptional knives while offering our customers a unique, personalized experience. Today, as I reflect on my journey, I’m grateful for the experiences that have shaped my path. From a sous chef admiring the tools of the trade to a knifemaker whose work is recognized and valued, it’s been a journey of passion, persistence, and creativity.
Alright, let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
No, it has not been smooth. The biggest struggle is navigating supply chain manufacturing partners and finding the right employees. The journey has been far from smooth. One of the most significant challenges I’ve faced has been navigating the complexities of supply chain and manufacturing partnerships. Establishing reliable and efficient channels for sourcing materials and managing production processes has been a daunting task to handle alone. The intricacies of coordinating with various suppliers, ensuring quality control, and dealing with unexpected delays or shortages have all posed considerable hurdles.
Additionally, finding the right employees has been another major struggle. Building a team that possesses the necessary skills and expertise and shares the vision and passion for the craft is crucial. Recruiting, hiring, training, and retaining talented individuals who can contribute to and thrive in the unique environment of knifemaking has been an ongoing endeavor and an immense investment in time and finance. So much of this work requires a delicate balance of skill, dedication, and a deep understanding of the art and science behind cooking and being willing to spend hours creating exceptional knives. I have worked years honing my craft, and to pass on the ancient art of blacksmithing and knifemaking, there must be a willingness to give in to the craft.
These challenges, however, have been instrumental in shaping the business and my approach to knifemaking. Each obstacle encountered has been a learning opportunity, pushing me to innovate, adapt, and grow. Despite the difficulties, my commitment to overcoming these struggles has strengthened the foundation of the business and reinforced my dedication to the craft. I keep going despite it all. 🙂
I appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Primeaux?
At Primeaux, we specialize in handcrafting high-quality, custom kitchen knives that cater to home chefs, professionals, and cooking enthusiasts. Our knives are known for their exceptional sharpness, craftsmanship, durability, and unique designs. We offer a range of styles during one-of-a-kind monthly newsletter drops, and this month, we also launched a custom knife designer that allows users to create their dream knife from blade shapes, including Santoku, Mini-cleaver, Chef, Petty, and K-tip Gyuto, allowing customers to choose a knife that best suits their culinary needs. Primeaux distinguishes itself with our hands-on, innovative approach. Every tool in our workshop has been handbuilt, reflecting our commitment to craftsmanship and quality. We handcraft each knife with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every piece meets our high standards. As a small, family-run business, we’ve developed Primeaux from the ground up, fueled by our passion and dedication, without needing external investments. Our unique custom knife designer tool on our website exemplifies our innovative spirit. This tool allows customers to design their dream knife in a dynamic 3D environment, offering an unmatched level of personalization. This dedication to customization, using high-quality materials and traditional knifemaking techniques, sets us apart in the industry. Furthermore, our exclusive “perfect pinch” bolster design, unique in the market, is engineered for optimal comfort and ergonomics, enhancing the user’s experience. This focus on functionality and user comfort is at the heart of what makes Primeaux a standout in kitchen cutlery and chef knives.
Brand-wise, I am proud of how Primeaux has blended traditional craftsmanship with modern technology. Our ability to offer our customers a personalized, interactive experience while maintaining the highest standards of quality in our products is something that truly defines our brand. I want readers to know that Primeaux is more than just a knifemaking company; it’s a brand that embodies the art of cooking, intentionality, and the essential tools that enhance a glorious kitchen experience. Our knives are not merely tools but works of art, each meticulously crafted with precision and care. You can feel the difference when you hold our sharp, well-balanced, well-made Primeaux kitchen knife in your hand. Whether you’re a professional chef or a passionate home cook, Primeaux offers an experience beyond the purchase of a knife – it’s about creating a piece uniquely yours, a true companion in your culinary adventures.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
- https://seths.blog/ -Seth Godin’s blog
- https://www.amazon.com/Belonging-Brand-Community-Marketing-Strategy/dp/1733553398 -Belonging to the Brand: Why Community is the Last Great Marketing Strategy by Mark Schaefer
- https://jamesclear.com/3-2-1 -James Clear’s 321 newsletter
- https://celebrate.substack.com/ -Kate Wiggeringloh (Primeaux’s co-founder) newsletter
- https://tim.blog/podcast/ -The Tim Ferriss Podcast
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.primeaux.us
- Instagram: instagram.com/primeaux.goods
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/primeauxknifelovers/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/primeaux/
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/@primeaux_us
- Other: linkin.bio/primeaux
Image Credits
Ryan Read: https://www.instagram.com/_ryanread/ *First three photos (John at anvil, John at forge, John Phillips and co-founder Kate Wiggeringloh) rest of the photos are owned/taken by John Phillips
