Relatively few of my knives ever come up for sale. Each knife is a test of skill: this is part and parcel of making unique, completely handmade, high-quality knives. And as each knife demands such a great deal of time, effort and skill, the most satisfying results - for owner and maker - often come from tailoring the knife to its future owner. Therefore, I frequently work on commission, and I'll explain how this works...

A commissioned knife need not be particularly expensive, though I can't take a commission for less than £200-£300, and higher values are more usual. It's important to know that the normal wait time these days is nine months. (However, if you have a special event, or a gift in mind, it is still always worth getting in touch, as I may be able to adjust my schedule a little). Commissioning a knife makes you one of a very select group: I generally only accept around 8 commissions a year.

If you're happy to take the time with me, there are a variety of ways we can begin the design process:

- If one of the knives I've started myself sparks your interest, let me know: I'm happy to finish it to your specifications. I'll often welcome an opportunity to work on these knives further: such commissions can be quicker, and a little lower in price;

- You are very welcome to commission a knife inspired by one of my previous knives (I always do a fresh design though, no direct copies);

- You can give me a general idea of the type of knife you'd like (e.g. historical reproduction, special purpose, personalised sgian dubh, etc.) and I will base an original design on what you've requested;

- Or, if you already have a specific idea of what you want, I'm happy to work from detailed descriptions, rough sketches or other reference ideas to create the design.

If the knife you want is something I can make for the price you want to pay, I'll then come up with an initial design based on your request, perhaps with a couple of price options depending on different materials. I hope you'll bear in mind that the design process is integral to the finished knife: I always want to take the time to get it right, and this can mean a bit of a wait until I'm able to shift my focus from other work.

Once you have my initial design, I welcome any comments or suggestions, and will make as many passes as necessary to get it right. When we're both happy with the details, I confirm the final price by asking for a deposit (usually one quarter the final price). By paying the deposit, you 'book your place' in my schedule, and once I start making the knife, I'll send you progress pictures and reports when I can. In terms of projected delivery, what I prefer to do is give everyone a season (spring, summer, etc.). I'll get in touch closer to the time to let you know exactly when to expect your knife. If there is a particular reason you need the knife by a certain date, please let me know from the start.

So, if you're inspired by the knives on my site, or if there's a particular knife you've always imagined owning, email me. It's the first step towards owning your own unique, custom made Skye Knife...