How to hold a knife
14 February 2025
Regardless of the type of knife you are using the method of holding a knife is the same. It is known as a ‘pinch grip’ and is the safest, most efficient and most effective way to use a knife.
1
To hold the knife, grip it by placing your thumb and forefinger around the base of the blade in a pinching position
2
Wrap the other 3 fingers around the handle of the knife
3
To cut, centre the knife in the middle of the chopping board and begin to create a rocking motion, up and over, using the whole length of the knife
4
Use your other hand to make a claw shape, you will use this as a guide for your knife
5
Place the claw over the food you wish to cut, being sure to keep your fingertips tucked underneath away from the blade
6
When cutting the food, rather than pushing it toward the knife, run you fingers over it, using your thumb for support
7
Sit the knife alongside your fingers and begin to slice all the way through the food, using the whole length of the knife
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