Julia Kalthoff – Axe Maker
The Timeless Art of Axe-Making
Julia Kalthoff is a Swedish axe maker. The curiosity of being able to shape glowing hot steel with her own two hands drove her to learn axe forging at Gränsfors Bruk. Julia later became CEO of Wetterlings and today she has her own axe brand, Kalthoff Axes, focusing on the carving axe. Her axes are internationally acclaimed by craftspeople and woodworkers.
From wood to fire-forged steel
For Julia Kalthoff, the journey into axe-making started not with a grand plan but with curiosity and a fascination for metalwork. “I’ve always loved working with my hands – wood, fabric, you name it,” Julia recalls. But the allure of metal was something else entirely. “It felt mysterious – using fire and all that – it was so intriguing”.
Her adventure began in her late teens when she after felt compelled to try metalwork got a spot at a course at the famed Gränsfors Bruk. Without money to pay the course fee, Julia worked it off by guiding visitors through their axe museum. What started as a casual introduction to the craft soon became a passion. “I didn’t care about axes at first; I just wanted to work with metal. But by the end of the summer, I didn’t want to leave”.
Rediscovering Humanity's First Tool
Julia’s journey into axe-making led her to Wetterlings Axe Works. The temporary position she got hired for was supposed to be three months, but she spent five years helping to revitalize the company as CEO. Her time there deepened her fascination with axes. “The axe is our first tool as humans – it’s so fundamental to who we are,” she reflects. Julia’s curiosity drove her to explore a single, powerful question: What makes a great axe?
That question became the foundation for her own venture into axe-making. Combining her passion for craft with a profound respect for tradition, Julia focused on creating axes that are both functional and beautiful. “It’s all in the details – when a tool works so well, you don’t even think about it. You just focus on what you’re creating”.
Tormek: A Reliable Partner in Craft
Julia’s workshop wouldn’t be complete without her Tormek sharpening system. “Tormek has always been there,” she says. “It’s like having a reliable friend who only wants your tools to be as sharp as possible”.
Her favorite feature? The Japanese Waterstone. “It’s a lifehack. Just 20 seconds, and my tool is so much sharper – it’s amazing!” she enthuses. Julia also appreciates the versatility of Tormek’s jigs. “Whatever I need to sharpen, I know I can figure out a solution with Tormek’s jigs. It gives me the feeling of being capable”.
Mindful Crafting - Balancing Efficiency with a Love for Nature
For Julia, working with her hands is more than a profession – it’s a philosophy. “Crafting is a source of joy. Nature is my oyster. Every walk feels like an opportunity to discover new materials,” she shares. Her work emphasizes sesibility and mindfulness. “Instead of fast consumption, I believe in making things myself, repairing what I have, and creating items that last”.
This philosophy extends to her production process. By focusing on small-batch production, Julia balances efficiency with love for her craft. “We make 25 axes a week. That number allows us to innovate and improve without losing the romance of the process. It’s about finding joy in the work, not just the result”.
Advice for Fellow Craftspeople & What's Next for Julia Kalthoff
Julia’s advice to new craftspeople is simple and right up our alley: “Learn to sharpen your tools. Sharp tools are the key to joy. Once you master sharpening, you’ll never need to think about it again – and dull tools will never slow you down”.
As for what’s next? Julia is already working on her next axe design. “Stay tuned!” she teases, proving that her passion for axes and craftsmanship continues to evolve.
-> Visit @kalthoffaxes on Instagram External link, opens in new window. or buy your own Kalthoff axe at www.kalthoffaxes.se External link, opens in new window.