Colton Handcrafted
How to Make Custom Wa-Handles and Sayas for Japanese Kitchen KnivesColton Handcrafted Ebooks
These ebooks are for everyone who enjoys Japanese kitchen knives and would like to learn how to make their own custom handles and sayas for them. The books go through the process from start to finish, covering the hand tools I use, providing tips on wood selection, and explaining finishing and installation. Follow along with detailed step by step technical drawings and pictures of my demonstration from the front cover.

How to Make Custom Wa-Handles for Japanese Knives follows detailed step by step technical drawings to make a handle that will fit a 210-270mm (8 ¼-10 ¼”) gyuto blade.
Both metric and imperial measurements are included.

How to Make Custom Sayas for Japanese Knives follows detailed step by step technical drawings to make a saya for any size blade.
Both metric and imperial measurements are included.
Price listed in Canadian Dollars (CAD).
Product Reviews
Get The Handle Making Guide!
When I was considering trying to make my own handles, a renowned, professional handle maker recommended I buy Colton’s how-to guide. It was great advice, he was absolutely right, and I recommend it to everyone! Yes, Colton details how to do the entire process by hand but the information is completely applicable no matter how you want to approach it!
I have all the dimension pages printed out and posted at my work bench now.
If you’re thinking about making your own Japanese wa handles, I can’t recommend this guide enough.
Traditional methods made very simple
I learned everything I needed to know about working with wood and knives from Colton. His methods are easy to follow, intuitive, and best of all traditional. Even now with lots of experience myself and a successful small knife business I still refer to his expertise to refresh my knowledge and solve problems.
Highly recommend to anyone looking to feel more connected to their knives and explore a very rewarding Japanese craft.
Custom Handle & Saya Worklogs
Ebony and Teak Wa-Handle with Matching Teak Saya
This is an example of a full custom commission. The client has requested a Futana SB Kuro Tsuchime Gyuto 210 mm blade and that Teak wood be used for the handle and saya. I suggested the use of Ebony to accent the golden colour of the teak. After a sketch to show the...
Cocobolo and Ebony Wa-Handle with Black Finish Saya
Here is a broad strokes view of a custom wa-handle and black finish saya for a Hitohira Futana SB Kuro Tsuchime Gyuto 210 mm.
Wa-Handle Dimensions and Shaping
When I first started making handles for Japanese knives I didn't have access to many product examples to compare so I searched the internet for a sizing chart of sorts. It turns out there wasn't a very detailed one. The best I could find was mainly just "length of...