Jobs knife challenge

A Coutellia Festival exclusive, the Jobs Knife Challenge exists nowhere else.

The goal of this challenge? To highlight the expertise of cutlery craftsmen in the art of assembly, polishing, filework, and more, in order to showcase the “Little Hands” behind workshop and cutlery-company production.

Working in teams and equipped with the same materials, participants—both professionals and amateurs—will have 2 hours to create 3 pieces: one folding knife and two fixed-blade knives showcasing traditional cutlery skills. After two days of competition, the winners will be announced on Sunday, May 17, 2026, during the awards ceremony.

The 35th edition of Coutellia, taking place on May 16 and 17, 2026, will host the Jobs Knife Challenge for the very first time.

The Challenge

The challenge will take place in the following way :

• 1 to 3 people per team (with at least one blacksmith/knife maker).

• Registration fees : 180€ per team.

• 2 hours of allotted time.

• Selection criteria :

– Creativity
– Quality of the fittings/assemblies
– Quality of the polishing and finishing
– Compliance with safety instructions

•  3 prizes will be awarded :

– 1st prize – Jobs knife Challenge: 900 €, a trophee and a a place in the jury for the next Jobs Knife Challenge.
– 2nd Prize: 600 €
– 3rd Prize: 300 €

Calendar

• 16 February 2026: Registration closes.

• 23 March 2026: Distribution of the candidates’s list

• 16, 17 May 2026: Competition (one slot per team)

• 17 May 2026, 3 pm : Award ceremony