Heikki Continues Rovaniemi’s Long Tradition of Knife Making
Rovaniemi has a long and successful history of knife making. Founded in 1928, Marttiini produced knives in the city for nearly a century, earning global recognition for blades designed to meet the demanding conditions of the North. Before the factory was relocated from Rovaniemi, Heikki Alakulppi—who had trained as a carpenter—also worked at Marttiini.
– I got to design my own knife models, some of which are still part of Marttiini’s collection. When my time at the factory came to an end, I realized my passion for continuing the local knife-making tradition was so strong that I decided to start my own company, Kivalo Design, says 38-year-old Heikki Alakulppi.
Since 2021, this skilled craftsman has been creating his own line of knives in Viirinkylä, Rovaniemi, at the foot of the Kivalo fells. His knives are a natural fit for the region’s hiking and berry-picking culture. Each blade reflects the maker’s personal touch and clearly stands apart from traditional designs. However, Heikki’s knives still honor the working methods of Marttiini.
– There are now 12 knives in my collection, two of which were custom-made for the City of Rovaniemi. The fitting names for the Rovaniemi products came through naming competitions organized by the city’s communications, marketing, and community engagement team.
The first to be created was Roihu, a versatile everyday knife designed for a wide range of uses. After that came Tilhi, a mushroom knife added to the Rovaniemi product line.
– People have especially appreciated the recognizable bird-like shape of the Tilhi, Heikki says.
He explains that in designing the mushroom knife, he received valuable and expert input from a local mushroom specialist, who offered tips and approved the final model.
– The mushroom knife has definitely been a hit. People in Rovaniemi are known for their love of the outdoors and enthusiasm for mushroom picking, but the knife has also become a popular gift for special occasions.
While spending time in the northern wilderness, new ideas are always taking shape in the knife maker’s mind. Right now, a new product is on the workbench: Karhupuukko, “the bear knife.”
*This article has been translated with artificial intelligence