21 Funny Knife Engraving Ideas for the Year 2025

Engraving a knife is one of the best ways to transform an everyday tool into something personal and unforgettable. With modern laser engraving technology, it's easier than ever to create detailed, lasting designs on metal, wood, or even synthetic handles.

But before you begin, you might be wondering: What should you engrave on a knife? That's where this guide comes in. Below you'll find 21 knife engraving ideas to inspire your next engraving project – whether you're giving an engraved knife as a gift or already own a personalized knife.

Idea 1: Engrave personalized names on a knife

One of the most popular and timeless ways to personalize a knife is by engraving names or initials. Engraving a knife with one's own name, that of a loved one, or a special nickname gives it a unique character. From elegant monograms to stylish fonts, personalized engravings lend each knife a special, emotional value.

#1 First names

• Sofia
• Emily
• Marcus

Source: Ryno's Stuff – Yes, you need a LaserPecker 4.

Engraving a name on a pocket knife is a classic knife engraving idea that never goes out of style. It's a thoughtful gift for a friend, son, or father – suitable for any occasion.

#2 Names of couples

• Emma & Jack
• L + M
• Anna ❤️ Leo
• K&S – Est. 2022
• T + R Always

These engraving ideas are romantic and meaningful – perfect for anniversary gifts or wedding sets, e.g. for a wedding cake knife .

#3 Full name with year of birth

• James Carter • 1985
• Sophia Lee • 1992
• Anna ❤️ Leo

Combine the full name with the year of birth to create a unique keepsake that marks a special date.

#4 Name of the cook

• Thomas's kitchen knives
• Chef Schmidt

Engraving a chef's name signifies that this knife is their "personal weapon." Whether you're an international master chef or the one wielding the cooking spoon at home, an engraved kitchen knife is a recognition of your culinary skills.

#5 Initials and Monograms

• AM
• AM & TS

It is more discreet than the full name, yet possesses a sophisticated design aesthetic, thus ideally combining privacy and personalization.

Idea 2: Engrave symbols and icons onto a knife

Sometimes a picture is worth a thousand words. Engraving simple yet meaningful symbols or icons onto a knife can elegantly express identity, values, or style. This method is especially popular when space is limited or a visual statement is more important than text.

#6 Cultural & historical symbols

• Celtic knots – symbol of eternity, loyalty and origin
• Viking runes – strength, protection or warrior spirit
• Samurai crest (Kamon) – Discipline and tradition
• Spartan helmet – courage and resilience

Source: Rome Knows Tech – LaserPecker 3 for marking a hunting knife

These symbol knife engraving ideas are suitable for both decorative knives and practical outdoor knives with engraving, such as hunting knives – they are not only beautiful but also functional.

#7 Nature & Wilderness Icons

Source: LaserPecker CraftZone – Engraving Knife Blades

• Mountains – adventure, stability, overcoming challenges
• Trees or leaves – growth, life, grounding
• Waves or rivers – flow, tranquility and adaptability
• Animal silhouettes – wolves, eagles, bears or deer – to reflect personal characteristics or passions.

Engraving natural elements such as floral patterns or rivers onto the blade is a great idea for almost any knife.

#8 Minimalist graphic icons

• Heart – Love or loyalty
• Skull – transience, rebellion or strength
• Compass – orientation and direction
• Lightning – Energy and power

These small designs give the knife a distinctive look and are ideal for everyday carry (EDC) knives.

#9 Own logos or emblems

Source: The Art of Craftsmanship – Creating a Maker's Mark: LaserPecker 3, configure and create!

• Company logo for corporate gifts
• Team or unit symbols for military or police knives
• Gaming or fantasy emblems for themed collections

Personalized logos transform a standard knife into a unique statement piece.

Idea 3: Engrave meaningful quotes and sayings on a knife

Words have power – and when engraved on a knife, they serve as a constant reminder of strength, purpose, or love. Wondering what a good quote for a knife would be? Don't worry, this category offers meaningful sayings that will give any knife deep personal value.

#10 Motivational Quotes

• "Stay sharp."
• "Never give up."
• "Strength through challenge."
• "Endure and overcome."

Perfect for everyday carry (EDC) knives, survival equipment, or as a gift for people going through difficult times.

#11 Love & Relationship Quotes

Source: LaserPecker CraftZone – Logo on knife

• "Yours forever."
• "You & Me – Always."
• "My rock, my blade."
• "For owning and holding."

The knife with the saying about love is a symbol of the everlasting love between lovers.

#12 Words for Dad

• "Best dad ever"
• "Dad, my hero"

Engraving a personal message on a knife is a meaningful and practical Father's Day gift that he will appreciate for years to come, because especially compared to ordinary gifts, it gives personalized engraved knives a unique and memorable value.

Idea 4: Engrave special dates and milestones on a knife

Engraving important dates on a knife transforms an everyday tool into a treasured keepsake. Whether for personal use or as a meaningful gift, an engraving of a special date ensures that the moment will never be forgotten.

#13 Anniversaries

• December 6, 2018 – Wedding anniversary
• Est. 2020 – Relationship milestone
• Together since 2015 – A subtle, romantic hint
• 10 years of strength – For long-term partnerships

#14 Closing Data

• Graduating class of 2023
• Completed May 2021
• UCLA '19
• Ph.D. achieved – 2024

Whether for personal use or as a gift, knives engraved with a graduation date are especially valuable due to their uniqueness. They are not only mementos of the end of studies, but also a blessing for a new chapter in life.

#15 Birthdays

• Born August 25, 1990
• Happy 30th!
• Dad – 1965
• Celebration 21!

Your birthday is your personal code in this world. It symbolizes that from this day forward, you will master your life, just as this blade gains sharpness through honing. It will accompany you on all your future paths. Popular for commemorative knives for milestone birthdays (18th, 21st, 30th, etc.).

#16 More special moments

• Retirement 2023 – 30 years of service
• USMC – 2002–2022
• In recognition of your dedication
• Fire Station 12 – Retirement
• First hunt – 17.09.22

Whether it's a first-time experience, retirement, a promotion, or a personal achievement – ​​a knife engraved with the date of this important event becomes a valuable keepsake for life.

#17 In Memoriam

• In loving memory – JTH 1970–2022
• Never forget
• RIP Dad
• Brother – Always with me

To express eternal remembrance of the deceased.

Idea 5: Engrave numbers on a knife

Engraving important numbers on a knife gives the blade personal meaning and transforms it into a keepsake. Simple, elegant, and timeless – numbers often say more than you think.

#18 Lucky or meaningful numbers

• 07
• 34.0522° N, 118.2437° W

Some people have a favorite number or a number that accompanies them throughout their lives. Coordinates (latitude and longitude) of a significant place can also be engraved.

#19 Serial numbers or codes

• Knife 03

Ideal for collectors or professionals who want to keep their tools traceable. A unique identifier can be engraved for a limited edition or a personalized set.

#20 the year of first use

• 1999

The exact year of purchase is the best reference for assessing the blade's condition and calculating its lifespan. A high-quality engraved pocket knife has the potential to be passed down for many years.

Idea 6: Engrave geographical coordinates and locations on a knife

Mark a place that has special significance with GPS coordinates or place names.

#21 Places

• 40.7128° N, 74.0060° W (New York City)
• "Mount Fuji, Japan"
• "Grandpa's Farm, Alabama"

An engraved place is far more than a location – it carries within it the beautiful memories associated with it.

Conclusion

From pocket knives and hunting knives to kitchen knives and collector's items – engravings offer endless possibilities. Whether classic names and quotes or striking patterns and symbols – these 21 knife engraving ideas will make any knife stand out. For anyone wanting to personalize an outdoor knife with an engraving or a special gift, engraving is the perfect way to combine functionality and personality.