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About Me

Jay Cooke

Jay Cooke is an experienced cutler who has sharpened knives and tools for over 45 years. As a woodworker, carver, and sculptor, he knew early on that sharp and durable tools were necessary for precision work, reducing labor costs, and maximizing profits. Over time, local carpenters heard about his ultra-sharp chisels and brought them in for the razor-sharp edges that transformed daily work.

As a restaurant sous chef, Jay learned that sharp tools were a necessity, not an option.  And now, as a home cook, daily prep is a joy. Friends visiting Jay’s home have been astonished at how much enjoyment could come from tools they’ve described as “wicked sharp.”

Encouraged to reach out, Jay now sharpens knives and tools professionally and teaches proper maintenance until the next sharpening. He uses some of the most sophisticated industry tools to complement his considerable hand skills, meaning each sharpening is completed on time, affordably, with exact and repeatable angles, year after year.

Unlike with other sharpening services, Jay doesn’t just take orders, he insists on talking to his clients. This means he knows how each person works, how their tools are used, and what would provide the most enjoyable and long-lasting results possible. He is accessible to those interested in learning and is happy to provide guidance in tool purchasing and maintenance.

When he’s not sharpening, Jay enjoys life in the mountains with his wife Ann and yellow Labrador Remy.

A PASSION FOR RESTORATION AND WARM MEMORIES

While sharpening is very satisfying, Jay also delights in bringing old or forgotten tools back to life.

Few things resonate more with people than seeing family heirlooms live for another generation. Grandad’s old chisels, de-rusted, with handles refinished and cutting edges sharp again, bring back warm memories for most of us.

And in today’s cheap, throw-away world, there is value in preservation and continued use.

So, if you have “tools with a story,” bring them in, and let’s breathe life into old or neglected but still useful tools that remind us of who used them and what they did.

“My knives come back sharper than when they were new.”

Mike, NH

“As someone who loves cooking, I know a good, sharp knife set is one key to making it most enjoyable. I do my best to keep them honed myself, but nothing beats a professional touch-up every so often. I’ve become so accustomed to the ease and precision of a sharp knife that I even travel with mine when I can. “

Emily, NH

“I zipped through a tomato—the first time in years without resorting to a serrated blade in my hand.”

Ann, VT

“Jay’s patient and adept at demystifying the tools. He inspired us to explore different knives and what to look for when purchasing (styles, qualities, different manufacturing materials, etc.). His tips and instructions for how to care for our knives are invaluable. We didn’t know how much difference it can make in food prep when using the right tool the right way.”

Scott, VT

 

“During my work with Jay for many years, a chisel sharpening method was developed for carving. Keeping a sharp, honed edge was key for consistency, speed, and tool ease. I use that same method today for my own letter carving and dimensional sculpting.”

Rick Loya, Owner of Artworks by Rick Loya

“Having a sharp knife goes beyond comfort and ease. Cooking and cutting feel drastically better with a sharp knife, and I’ve found it much safer. And though I’m an avid cook, I still don’t take the time to keep my knives sharp. Having someone to keep my knives in good condition goes a long way. Highly recommended and worth the regular upkeep!”

Rachel, NH