Jeff has been making knives from his work bench for his whole adult life. Originally in partnership as one half of Featherstone and Durber, then as occasional private commissions and gifts for lucky clients and family.
Finally, moving to a space where he could expand his workshop meant that Jeff could work on a more repeatable range of affordable pocket knives for a wider audience.
It has always been important to Jeff that he makes every step of his knives with care, precision and attention to detail. The development of his designs has come through a lifetime of studying design, materials, ergonomics, form, function and manufacturing techniques. Jeff Durber’s knives are made to last long after you’ve had chance
to pass yours on. They are the pocket knife you always wanted as a kid but weren’t allowed. Now you’re a grown up you get to choose!
Jeff Durber teaches on the BA Jewellery and Metalwork course at Sheffield Hallam University where he has been senior lecturer for over 20 years. He has won awards for his inspirational teaching and acted as an external assessor for other courses in the UK, so his opinion on design, metalwork, function, technique and critical thinking is widely respected.
Everyone who knows him or has handled something he has made, knows that it is the very best you’re ever going to see. You can spend time looking for flaws but you won’t find them. His products are a joy to handle. Made after hundreds of
iterations and tweaks to result in things of beauty, consideration and elegance. The Japanese almost certainly have a word for things like it….. I need to look it up!
Jeff couldn’t write this bit himself because he’s way too modest and well balanced, so I (his wife) have written it. Yes, I may be biased, but I am genuinely in awe of his skill. Jeff’s work is amazing. Buy yourself or someone you love something made by him and I promise you, you will NEVER regret it.
Sarah Featherstone