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Meet Alejandro,
Roles at Hydref Collective:
Custom Knifemaker, Craftsman, Bushcraft Practitioner, Archer & Axe Thrower
Favourite Session:
Archery & Axe Throwing
Instagram @durdraig
Early Years:
Alejandro grew up in the Colombian countryside, in the heart of the Andes, surrounded by mountains, open land and a way of life that kept him close to nature. That upbringing gave him a deep respect for the outdoors and a natural understanding of sustainable living. It also sparked a lifelong interest in outdoor survival and self-sufficiency; knowing how to look after yourself, work with what you have, and waste as little as possible.
Career:
In 2008, after finishing a master's in 3D animation, he moved to the UK to pursue a career as a professional skipper and marine engineer. Leaving the creative world of animation for life on the water might seem like a big shift, but both paths come from the same place: his love of building, problem-solving and working with his hands.
That hands-on spirit came to the surface during COVID. He had always been fascinated by swords and medieval weapons, and with unexpected time on his hands, he decided to teach himself to forge one. The experience taught him patience and craftsmanship, and it planted the seed for Dur Draig: the idea of making a living by crafting knives, and linking that craft to outdoor living, self-reliance and sustainability. When he joined the Hydref Collective, those threads finally started to come together into something real.
Now:
In his spare time Alejandro uses his shed as a makeshift workshop, crafting knives using primarily the stock removal method on high carbon steel. He uses locally sourced wood for the handles wear possible, and has recently expanded into leatherwork to create the accompanying sheaths.
Hydref Goals:
With the collective Alejandro would like to start teaching his knife making skills and techniques.
Hobbies & Interests:
Van Conversions, DIY, Fishing, Sailing, Archery, Crafting & Music
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