A timeless knife with a modern twist.
June 2024
Duration: 10 Weeks
Design Intern at The James Brand
“The James Brand is the darling of the EDC crowd” -Hodnikee
The James Brand
In 2012, a group of creators set out to create a better everyday carry (EDC) knife. 12 years later, TJB’s mission remains the same: create modern tools and knives with quality materials and a minimalist design, for the adventurer in all of us.
The Origins
The Higo Knife was born in Miki, Japan in 1896. The knife was forged by the Empire of the Rising Sun-era blacksmiths looking to find new work after the samurai were disbanded. This knife, carried by schoolchildren and adults alike, began to define the EDC.
With a primary use as a pencil sharpener during its prime, The James Brand wanted to explore the knife with the possibility for a Blackwing Pencil collaboration.
The Rokko Mountains, housing the Mino River where the first Higo was crafted.
Research
The big details
Sketching
The James Brand uses Adobe Illustrator for sketching, utilizing orthographic views for modifying silhouette and shape.
Handle Ideation
Building up the foundation
Graphic Ideation
Experimentation with Japanese symbols and TJB branding
Blade Ideation
Simplifying the knife’s tanto-style blade
Color Ideation
Using TJB and Blackwing color palettes to enhance the knife’s artistic roots
Lever Ideation
Experimentation with a built-in and bolted lever
Final Sketches
CAD and Prototypes
Working with TJB employees to refine the knife
Version 1
Feedback:
Blade isn’t flush with handle
Lever feels too thin
Sharp edge of blade should match straight edge of handle
Decorative divot in handle feels uncomfortable
Version 2
Feedback:
Grind line doesn’t mesh with handle
Handle feels too thin in hand
Lever doesn’t mesh into blade well
Decorative divot feels better, but still interferes with comfort
Version 3
Feedback:
Blade and grind line meshes with handle well
Lever at appropriate scale to knife
Both folded and unfolded forms tell the knife’s story
Main bolt and Japanese symbols elements placed well
3D Prints
Test models for each of the three versions assessed by the TJB team of six.
The James Brand: The Higo
The James Brand x Blackwing
A collaboration encompassing the craft and care behind both company’s designs, and their commitment to putting the user first.
