Some of the most frequently asked questions we receive are in regards to becoming an apprentice swordsmith. This article is meant to help answer many of the questions we are asked about apprenticeships.
Michael Bell undertook a traditional five year apprenticeship to Japanese master swordsmith Nakajima Muneyoshi. Michael ’s teacher, Mr. Nakajima, was unique [...]
Entries Tagged as 'Articles'
So you want to become an apprentice swordsmith…
January 31st, 2009 · 19 Comments · Articles
Interview with Pieces
January 30th, 2009 · No Comments · Articles
Michael Bell was recently interviewed by the online magazine Pieces, which seeks to explore the various materials that we use so often in everyday life and their multi-faceted functions.
The current issue focuses on steel, it’s many applications in modern life, and features an interview with Michael. The interview can be read here.
Swordsmithing – an ancient art
March 29th, 2008 · 2 Comments · Articles
From The World Newspaper, Coos Bay, Oregon
By Jo Rafferty
Michael Bell started up the electric motor on a gigantic press he uses to shape the blades of Japanese swords.
“Bam! Bam!” The dies clanked together on the approximately 3-foot-long flat piece of steel, turned red from the heat of the forge fire.
“It’s 1,500 degrees, but it will [...]
Knife World-Michael Bell, Dragonfly Forge, by Dennis Ellingson
November 23rd, 2007 · 4 Comments · Articles
This article is also available in PDF format with photographs.
I met Michael Bell on August 26, 1984 at a knife show in San Jose, California. It was a momentous meeting which I recall vividly. There were some star players at this show. Of special import was Bernard Levine who introduced me to Michael Bell and, [...]
