How do Kivalo Design knives stand out from other knives?

Kivalo Design is a Finnish camping brand from Rovaniemi, Lapland. Although we are still quite new as a brand, we have decades of experience in the camping and knife industry behind us. I'm Heikki, a knife designer and manufacturer, and together with our team we use this experience to design knives that meet the needs of users and last from year to year.

We manufacture Kivalo knives in Rovaniemi, a traditional knife-making town. As a local manufacturer, it feels important to continue the Finnish knife tradition and at the same time develop it further. We want to maintain the appreciation of craftsmanship and bring in modern functionality and design that makes each knife unique.

How do the materials affect the durability and comfort of the knife?

The handles of Kivalo knives are made from local Finnish birch and rowan. We chose these types of wood because they feel good and are durable. From my own experience, I know how important it is for a handle to fit well in the hand and feel comfortable even after prolonged use.

We treat the handles with wood wax, which withstands abrasive use and moisture and does not crack on its own. In some models, we also use colored wax or special colors to give them a unique look. It is important to me that each knife has its own character.

We use carbon steel blades in our knives. The blades are manufactured by Laurin Metalli in Kauhava, and we finish them in our own workshop in Rovaniemi.

What are Kivalo knives made of and how should they be cared for? Read more

How is the unique design reflected in Kivalo knives?

Kivalo knives combine unique and modern design with practicality. Each of our models, such as Korppi, Pöllö, and Aurora, has been designed specifically for different uses based on user experience and wishes. I design the knives myself so that they feel comfortable and balanced in the hand. I test the prototypes myself and make adjustments based on how they perform in practice.

Ergonomics, comfort and visual beauty always go hand in hand in our design process. I want every knife to work well, but also look good on the side of a backpack or in a gift box.

We carefully craft each knife by hand. Our process is unique and detailed; this is not mass production. This is evident in how each knife is slightly different, finished specifically for the material and intended use. This ensures that every knife meets our high quality standards.

Kivalo Design offers knives you can trust. They are practical and durable, and they are made with great care and skill. For me, it is important that a knife is not just a tool, but that it also tells a story about its maker, its user, and where and how it is used.

Every knife is handmade in Rovaniemi, Finland and it is a matter of honor for us.