Gawie has been a hobbyist knife-maker since 1989 and became a fulltime knife-maker in 1998. In 2001 he became a Guild member.

Gawie makes fixed blades, folders, knife-sets, and knife-making machines. He, furthermore, presents training courses monthly on knife-making. To date he has been awarded twelve ‘Certificates of Excellence’ for his uniquely knives exhibited at shows. Gawie was awarded with the much sought after Nick Grabe Trophy for ‘The Best New Knife-maker’ during the Guilds Annual Exhibition in 2001.

Thinus trained by Gawie , was recognized as a young up-and-coming knife-maker at the 2001 Durban Easter Knife Show, where he was awarded two first prices. An invitation to join the Guild membership within another five months was just evidence of his talent.

Since then, he was awarded a total of sixteen ‘Certificates of Excellence’ for his outstanding knives exhibited at shows. Following in his father's footsteps, he was also awarded with the Nick Grabe Trophy for ‘The Best New Knife-Maker’ during the Guild’s Annual Exhibition in 2002.

Thinus makes fixed blades, folders, knife-sets, does scrimshaw and leather work. He also co-presents training courses on knife-making monthly.