Meet Patrick Joseph
The Journey to Craftsmanship
Patrick wasn’t always an internationally acclaimed knife maker. Following a life changing injury, Patrick discovered craft during his rehabilitation. What began as therapy became his calling. Leatherwork led to knife making. Knife making led to a journey around the world, learning from the most respected names in the craft.
Today, from his private forge in Kilkenny, Patrick spends his time creating one of a kind pieces, attending the world’s most prestigious knife shows and sharing his skills through his own exclusive ‘Patrick Joseph Experiences’.
Mastering the Art of Knife Making
As Patrick’s passion for the craft grew, so did his ambition. His journey took him to the United States, where renowned knife maker Gil Hibben and his son Wes welcomed him into their workshop, sharing their skills, knowledge and experience.
Patrick continued his development by studying high-performance Japanese kitchen knives with Murray Carter and outdoor knifemaking with Lin Rhea. Time spent visiting makers’ studios deepened his understanding of design, metallurgy and the techniques behind exceptional blades.
He is currently under the mentorship of Tommy Gann, working towards his long-term ambition of achieving Master Smith status with the American Bladesmith Society. These experiences have helped Patrick develop a distinctive approach, combining cutting performance and considered design with the precision and decorative detail of his jewellery craft.
International Knife Shows
Patrick Joseph is a regular feature at the World’s most prestigious specialist knife shows.
Blade Show Atlanta
The world's largest knife show
Held annually in June - Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Achievements and Professional Recognition
Craft Recognised around The World
Patrick’s dedication to knife making has been recognised around the world. He is a member of The Knife Makers Guild and The American Bladesmith Society (ABS), organisations dedicated to preserving the art of forged blades.
His outstanding devotion to craft has also earned him voting status as a member of The Knifemakers Guild in the US. This status is earned through peer recommendations, inspection of his handmade pieces, completion of probationary requirements and election by voting members of the guild.
Now based in the Castle Yard in Kilkenny, Patrick creates distinctive pieces of functional art, celebrated internationally for their beauty and innovation.
Patrick has been awarded with numerous prestigious accolades, including:
- Prestige Business Award (UK): Best Irish Blade Smith (2021 and 2022)
- Future Makers Award 2022: Professional Development Support from the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland
- Damasteel® Chef Invitational – Best in Show (2021): Awarded at the prestigious Damasteel Chef Invitational (DCI) Online Show in recognition of outstanding craftsmanship in culinary knife making.
- RDS Craft Award (2023): Honoured for a hunting knife made from bog yew and Damasteel RWL34, embellished with 10k gold Celtic banding and VVS1 diamonds.
- Chamber Design and Craft Business Award (2024): Presented by Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce for excellence in design, craft, and contribution to local creative industries.
- Corporate LiveWire Global Awards (2024/25): Internationally recognised for leadership and innovation in luxury handmade knives and jewellery under the Patrick Joseph brand.
As a proud Damasteel ambassador, Patrick continues to create extraordinary pieces of functional art that blend beauty, innovation, and originality.
Jewellery and Goldsmithing
Patrick’s passion for craftsmanship led him to study Jewellery and Goldsmithing at the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland, where he explored combining his bladesmithing skills with precious metals, gemstones, and other materials.
His training developed his skills in precious metals, gemstones and jewellery design, opening new possibilities for both his jewellery and his knives. Training in hand engraving with Angus McFadden further strengthened his approach to intricate detail and personalisation.
From bespoke rings and personal commissions to knives embellished with precious metals and gemstones, Patrick brings these disciplines together through precise construction, distinctive design and exceptional attention to finish.
The Patrick Joseph Philosophy
Here at Patrick Joseph, we believe that true craftsmanship is forged where heritage meets imagination. From bespoke handmade knives to fine jewellery, each creation is shaped with precision, patience and purpose – combining ancient craft techniques with innovative design and exceptional materials.
Handcrafted in the city of Kilkenny, every Patrick Joseph piece is built to be more than an object. It is a reflection of individuality, a celebration of heritage crafts and an incredible story waiting to be experienced.
The Knife Making Experiences
An exclusive experience with an award-winning bladesmith. No experience needed - just curiosity, and a passion for knives.
Experiences
The Knife Making Experience
Two days in Patrick's private Kilkenny forge. Walk in with zero experience, walk out with a knife you made with your own hands - and a story worth telling.
Book your Experience
1-Week knife Making Experience
A week in the forge - learn traditional techniques and create a high-performance knife with your own hands. The perfect bucket-list experience.
Book your Experience
The Five-Day Damascus Knife Making Experience
Over five days, learn the art of damascus steel from Patrick Joseph and create a unique patterned blade made entirely by you - no experience needed.
Book your Experience