Custom Made or Batch Production

Efficient • Skills • Prices

In the last Sunday News edition, we shared thoughts by @jmchopp on batch vs custom and why he prefers making batches.

Captions gotta be short, so I’ll sum it up in my own words:

👉 Batches are more efficient, which leads to a more viable business.

👉 You have to live with imperfections.

👉 Customizaations are possible but based on the models you make.

👉 It’s good learning trying to replicate the exact same knife 5 (or 10) times

👉 Selling the knife you already make means customers get what they expect.

👉 And a couple more points, see the Sunday News for it all.

@made_by_jon added a few fun points (not in Sunday News yet):

👉 You can make more of what you like!

👉 It’s easier to stick to your prices

IK: We’ve heard from knife makers who struggle to charge what they know they should.

A pricing calculator like the one from @rafter_d_custom that we shared a while back can make this easier!

However, batch knives avoid the problem altogether: they come with a price tag. Take it or leave it.

👉 Like Jamison, Jon likes that with batch making you can become more efficient and hone your skills because knives are comparable.

Talking to @phillyknifeco added even more nuances to the discussion:

👉 It’s easier for customers. They can point to a pic and say: I want that but can you change XYZ.

👉 With your models as starting point for (small) customizations, you stay within your niche. No requests for machetes, if you’re specializing in fine silver cutlery.

Thanks to all of you for sharing your thoughts!