From Haines, Alaska to the New West KnifeWorks Forge

Arik Miller’s knife-making journey started in Haines, Alaska, a town of just 2,500 people. At 12 years old, he crafted his first “knife” from scrap aluminum and paracord. It wasn’t sharp, but it sparked a passion that would shape his future.

With the help of his dad, Arik graduated from scrap metal to scavenged spring steel, building a homemade forge powered by a weed burner and a hairdryer. Armed with hammers, pliers, and pure determination, he started banging steel and never looked back.

Over the next five years, Arik traveled to Sweden three times to study axe making under master smith Friedrich Thelin. Back home, he and his dad built out a proper shop where he mass-produced railroad spike knives for local markets before progressing to Damascus steel and custom orders.

Finding His Place—and His Craft—in Jackson Hole

A summer of raft guiding brought Arik to Jackson Hole, but fate (and a bike wash next door) led him to New West KnifeWorks. After a few persistent visits—literally knocking on the door—he landed a spot on the team and found a space where his creativity could thrive.

The Art of Damascus: Where Steel Meets Imagination

For Arik, Damascus isn’t just a technique—it’s a canvas. The layers of steel, the intricate patterns, and the unpredictable nature of forging allow him to express his evolving style.

“Sometimes I start with a drawing, but a lot of the time I just light the forge and start hammering. It depends on the mood I’m in.”

His work reflects both the ruggedness of Jackson Hole and the freedom he’s found at New West KnifeWorks. Each knife is a blend of skill, spontaneity, and artistry.