We’ve made a lot of unusual denim projects over the years, but this one is something we’ve been especially excited to show.
Our newest Higonokami takes Japanese selvedge denim and builds it directly into the handle of the knife, with the red selvedge edge visible through the center for the first time. This is not a denim print or a denim wrap. It’s real rope-dyed indigo Japanese selvedge denim, transformed into the grip itself, made in Japan.
A Denim Handle, Built Like a Composite
The handle starts with layers of rope-dyed indigo Japanese selvedge denim. The denim is stacked, resin-infused, then cured under heat and pressure to create a dense laminated block. From there, the handle is shaped and finished, revealing the layers of fabric inside.
The result is lightweight, strong, and textured, with a surface that feels unlike a standard metal handle. As the material is worked and finished, the denim begins to show highs and lows in the indigo, almost like a faded pair of jeans. Look closely and you can see the layered construction, along with the red selvedge edge running through the handle.
The Higonokami
The Higonokami is a traditional Japanese folding pocket knife with roots in Miki, Hyōgo Prefecture, dating back to the late 19th century. Its simple construction is part of what makes it so recognizable: a folding blade, a handle, and the distinctive chikiri lever used by the thumb to help control the blade during use.
This version keeps that classic form, but reworks the handle through a Naked & Famous Denim lens. The chikiri lever remains, giving the knife its familiar profile and helping provide secure handling while in use.
VG10 Reverse Tanto Blade
The blade is made from VG10 steel, a high-quality Japanese stainless steel known for sharpness and edge retention. The reverse tanto shape gives the knife a clean, precise profile, while the double-edged V-grind makes it comfortable to use from either side.
Details
Blade length: 2 3/4" / 7 cm
Handle length: 3 3/4" / 9.5 cm
Blade: VG10 reverse tanto
Handle: resin-infused Japanese selvedge denim laminate
Grind: double-edged V-grind
Lever: classic chikiri
Please note: this knife does not fit the Naked & Famous Knife Sheath.
