Fundraiser Raffle for De Wet Van Zyl
I am organizing a raffle to raise funds for my talented friend and fellow knifemaker, De Wet Van Zyl. Recently, De Wet has been battling a spinal abscess, which has unfortunately led to septicemia. This health crisis has kept him in and out of the hospital for the past three weeks. As a full-time knifemaker, these medical challenges have significantly impacted his ability to work, especially with the Knifemakers Guild Show—the most significant event of the year—fast approaching at the end of August.
About De Wet Van Zyl:
De Wet Van Zyl is a highly skilled bladesmith and custom knifemaker from Durban, South Africa. He began his journey into knifemaking in 2005 under the name “Darkwing Blades.” After apprenticing with master bladesmiths Kevin and Heather Harvey at Heavin Forge in Belfast, Mpumalanga, he officially launched Darkwing Blades in April 2009.
De Wet’s work spans a wide range of styles and challenges, from chef’s knives and Bowies to war hammers, chainmail, boot daggers, Persian khanjars, throwing knives, wakizashi swords, belt buckle knives, and Nepalese kukris. He also specializes in custom orders, turning clients’ ideas and designs into beautifully crafted knives.
His exceptional craftsmanship has earned him recognition as a “Maker to Watch” by Blade Magazine and multiple awards at the Durban Easter Knife Show, including “Best Fighter,” “Best Dagger,” “Best Boot Dagger,” and “Best Art Fixed Blade.” De Wet’s knives are stocked in weapons stores in Durban and Johannesburg, and he has shipped orders internationally, including to Germany and the United States. Additionally, he offers bladesmithing courses.
Raffle Details:
The prize for this raffle is a stunning 52100 San Mai Santoku knife. All proceeds will go towards alleviating the financial burden on De Wet during this challenging period.
Your support and participation in this raffle are greatly appreciated. By coming together, we can help De Wet focus on his recovery and continue his passion for knifemaking.
