​Designer/Metalsmith/Sculptor

Kevin J. O'Dwyer

Kevin O’Dwyer’s Damascus steel cutlery represents a seamless dialogue between ancient metallurgical tradition and modern silversmithing artistry. Each piece is forged from layered steel, a process that not only ensures strength and durability but also produces mesmerizing rippling patterns across the blade’s surface. These organic motifs, unique to every knife, reflect the centuries-old craft of pattern-welding while being elevated through O’Dwyer’s contemporary design sensibility. His approach transforms the functional blade into a canvas where history and innovation coexist, merging practical performance with sculptural beauty.

The refinement continues in the details: handles crafted from precious hardwoods such as ebony and bog yew are paired with silver accents, emphasizing balance, contrast, and elegance. This fusion of materials highlights O’Dwyer’s ability to harmonize strength with sophistication, tradition with modernity. More than mere dining implements, these knives function as works of art—objects that invite tactile engagement and visual admiration. In O’Dwyer’s hands, cutlery transcends utility, becoming a celebration of craftsmanship that turns the act of dining into an elevated experience of artistry and ritual.

Kevin O'Dwyer fusing steel layers at the forge

Award winning Damascus steel, carved ebony and sterling silver

Kevin O'Dwyer and Liam Flynn collaboration

Kevin O'Dwyer

Damascus Steel Cutlery

The Damascus steel process involves the meticulous forging of multiple layers of steel to create a blade that is both exceptionally strong and visually distinctive. Traditionally, this is achieved by stacking alternating layers of high- and low-carbon steel, heating them to a high temperature, and hammering them together until they bond into a single billet. This billet is then folded, twisted, and reforged repeatedly, a process that not only refines the steel’s strength and flexibility but also produces the characteristic flowing, rippled patterns across the blade’s surface. Once ground and polished, these patterns are revealed in striking detail, giving each piece a unique fingerprint of craftsmanship. The result is a blade that embodies both functional excellence—sharpness, durability, and resilience—and an aesthetic richness that has made Damascus steel legendary for centuries.

Chef's knife: Damascus steel, sterling silver and ebony handle

Hunting knife: Damascus steel, sterling silver and bog yew handle

Chef's knife: Damascus steel, sterling silver and ebony handle.