24 August is National Knife Day, a day to appreciate all the knives we use daily, and their effectiveness.
It is a celebration of this marvellous and useful tool that has been with the human race since the beginning of time.
The evolution of the knife is remarkable – the earliest knives were made from bone, stone and flint. Today’s creations contain titanium, bronze, iron and steel.
In the old times a knife was used to carve out basic necessities and was vital to survival. Today it means so much more to the fisherman, surgeon, carver or rescue worker, because without it they will not be able to do their jobs.
Knives are also used for cooking, eating and hunting.
To realise how indispensable knives are in our lives we just need to think about the handy Swiss Army knife that almost everybody has.
The origin of National Knife Day is shrouded in mystery, making it an unofficial holiday, yet it is a good time for everyone to learn and appreciate the importance of a knife.
Here are some interesting knife facts:
– It is advisable to use only the appropriate knife sharpener for the specific knife. Using other sharpeners may damage the knife blade.
– Knives are not made of stainless steel only; a metal alloy is used for that purpose. To protect a knife against stains, try not to immerse it in highly concentrated salt water.
– Always keep a knife dry to prevent rust.
– Always use a sharp knife. Using a dull knife requires more force and exposes the user to more danger.
To celebrate, test your knife chopping skills in the kitchen or buy that knife set you have always wanted. Invite friends or family over for a knife-swapping party, or to clean and sharpen your knives.
There is nothing better than having a slice of cake cut by the knife. And, instead of wishing someone to have a nice day, why not say: “Have a knife day!”
Post on social media using #NationalKnifeDay.
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