We are often contacted by customers wanting to create homemade knife blocks.

It is difficult for our team to advise each customer due to the variables of each unique project however here is an outline of the key points for consideration when choosing the right magnet for your project:

• Air gap - any gap present between the magnet and the surface of the knife will greatly diminish the strength of the hold. Customers commonly wish to embed the magnet into the back of a block of wood however for the best outcome ensure there is a minimal gap between the magnet and knife.
• Large knives can be heavy so it is important to select a magnet that has a holding capacity capable of holding your heaviest knife.
• We suggest having a look at our range of knife blocks for guidance on the standard design. Ferrite blocks are generally used in the making of knife holders as they are bigger and provide more coverage. However, Ferrites are weaker than Neodymium Magnets and are therefore used in multiples. 
• The Pull Force listed for each magnet is based on lifting 10mm thick steel vertically. Magnets on a vertical surface (of 10mm thick steel) are generally able to hold around 30% of the pull force listed due to the effects of gravity and the lack of traction between the surface and the shiny magnet.
  • An example of this 'rule' is a magnet that has been tested to a pull force of 1kg (testing is conducted with 10mm thick steel lifted/holding vertically). When placed on a vertical surface the pull force is diminished to approximately 300grams.
• Your project will likely require some trial and error. We have a 30 day returns policy and unused products can be returned for a full refund.
• Not all cutlery contains iron and therefore may not be ferrous.

Customer Review from Andrew who used our Neodymium Disc Magnets (15mm x 7mm):

"I used these for a wooden knife rack and they are just perfect. For anyone interested, I used only a 2.5mm depth of timber between the magnet and the knife surface; and I placed them horizontally at 25mm intervals centre-to-centre of magnet. The strength in this placement is ideal, knives don’t budge but it’s easy enough to lift them off the block of wood. It even holds a hammer!"