An Ode to Heritage.
In 1896, on the banks of the Mino River in Miki, Japan, blacksmiths forged the first everyday carry knife. Named the Higonokami, the knife quickly gained popularity, becoming the go-to tool for students and workers needing to sharpen pencils and complete everyday tasks.
The James Brand, continuing the legacy of everyday carry products, visualized a tribute to the knife that started it all.
The Higonokami: The James Brand x Blackwing Pencil Collaboration
Everyday Carry (EDC)
Duration: 10 Weeks
x
Grounds for Collaboration.
The James Brand: Knife and tool design | Blackwing: Writing Utensil Design
Together: A Celebration of Both Crafts, the Pencil Sharpening Knife: The Higonokami
Target Category
The Redstone
$99 | 6.2" | 1.8 oz
The Higonokami
$99 | 6 - 6.5"
The Ellis Slim
$99 | 6.5" | 1.8 oz
Design Objective: design a lightweight, modern iteration of the Higonokami knife, incorporating traditional elements while adhering to The James Brand's minimalist design language.
Design Phase
Illustrator Sketching Phase
Final Sketch Concept
CAD Phase
Version 1
Feedback: made edges of blade and handle flush, lever feels uncomfortable when pressed down, decorative divet inhibits a comfortable grip
Feedback: made edges of blade and handle flush, lever feels uncomfortable when pressed down, decorative divet inhibits a comfortable grip
Version 2
Version 3
Feedback: made edges of blade and handle flush, lever feels uncomfortable when pressed down, decorative divet inhibits a comfortable grip
A Knife Born in Necessity.
On the banks of the Mino River in Miki, Japan, blacksmiths forged the first pocket knife, the Higonokami, meaning "Lord of Higo". The pencil-sharpening blade provided students and workers with a tool they needed on their person at all times, fueling the Everyday Carry category's popularity.
Today, we pay homage to our beginnings, bringing The James Brand's personal touch to a knife baked into our history. Featuring a 440C stainless steel blade with a matching stainless steel handle, The Higo brings a premium experience without losing an ounce of tradition.
Product Details
A Modern Take on a Historic Knife
Featuring traditional elements embedded into a minimal design
Reverse Tanto 440 Stainless Steel Blade
A blade that lasts a lifetime, in a first time blade style for TJB
User-Locking Mechanism
No fancy mechanism. The user holds the blade into a locked position, just like the real thing.
440C Stainless Steel 90° Brushed Blade
6.8" Unfolded Length, 4.3" Folded Length
Made for James.
A TJB take on a timeless knife, implementing minimal design while respecting the tradition that made the blade timeless.
The James Brand x Blackwing: The Box Set.
Two timeless companies, dedicated to one person: the user. This box kit celebrates both companies, their users, and their undying commitment to craft.
David Jones Design Portfolio