Thorburn Andre E.
Vibrant craftsman of South African knifemaking, Andre Thorburn
Andre Thornburn is a vibrant representative of South African knifemaking. He is a member of several national Knifemakers’ Guilds (including RSA, USA, Germany, and Italy). What differs Andre’s knives from others is premium materials, sophisticated décor, and fine handwork.
Andre has his origins in Johannesburg. This thriving city got its new citizen in the spring of 1956. May 12th was the day when the main character of our story was born.
Andre was the eldest son in the family. His parents, artistic and devout people, were spending their time mostly working on the farmlands around Warmbaths (to the north of Johannesburg) as they owned some areas.
Andre got happily married early when he was 22 to a girl named Mariethie. The couple had two baby girls. Andre was always close to his family, and they paid him back by being supportive even in difficult times.
Knifemaker’s story began in 1989. A year after, Andre closed his first deal. He sold his very first knife to a friend. That was something to begin with. Orders from big fans of knives came along after the first purchase made by a buddy. The Knifemakers’ Guild of Southern Africa got Andre as its member in 1995. Since then, masterfully devoted himself to knifemaking. To pursue his career, the master started actively participating in international knife events. During his journey, Andre was inspired by the like-minded people he met who shared their experiences and pushed Andre to create new forms, try new technologies.
Even though Andre is specializing in crafting folding knives with liner locks, there are other tools that draw the master’s attention. The craftsman sometimes manufactures excellent fixed blades. That brought him recognition in the field. He took the “Best Hunter” award at the Blade Show West in the USA (Oregon) and two similar awards in his country of origin. Moreover, master happened to receive four following awards in 2008-2011 years.
In the process, the master uses modern technologies. He decorates his products with engraving and inlays of gold. Meeting with a Belgian engraver Julien Marchal in 2011 started their long successful collaboration.
Mammoth ivory, Damascus, G10, carbon, San Mai, and zirconium — these are the materials Andre deals with. As for the bearing systems, the master prefers working with the IKBS. You can see that mechanism in the author's tactical folders and gentleman flippers.
Andre Thorburn is one of the leading manufacturers of handmade folding knives in South Africa. He has been a Chairman of Southern Africa’s Knifemakers’ Guild for 4 years (from 2007 to 2011).
Thorburns moved back to Warmbaths after 30 years of being away. The small city with a slow pace had changed its name to Bela Bela. Andre built a house and settled down to enjoy the quiet and simple life.
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