Robert Welch Signature Book Oak Knife Block
Robert Welch Signature Book Oak Knife Block
Age Verified Delivery at £6.95 will apply (regardless of the total cost of your order) and delivery driver may require proof of age, if you are lucky enough to look younger than 21!
- Free Mainland UK delivery over £49 - No Quibble Returns
Robert Welch Signature Book Oak Knife Block
The Robert Welch Signature Book Oak Knife Block combines six essential kitchen knives with space-saving solid oak storage. The vertical book-style design provides effective knife protection whilst occupying minimal worktop space, making it ideal for placement against walls or at the side of kitchen work areas.
Each set includes six knives from the Robert Welch Signature collection, covering the fundamental cutting tasks in food preparation. The solid oak block protects blade edges whilst keeping knives accessible, and silicone feet provide stability on kitchen surfaces.
Key features:
- Complete knife collection: Six Signature knives from 10cm paring to 23cm carving, covering slicing, chopping, and detailed cutting tasks
- Solid oak construction: Sustainable oak wood protects knife edges and provides attractive countertop storage
- Space-saving design: Vertical orientation (360mm H x 220mm W x 80mm D) suits placement against walls or beside work areas
- Stable base: Silicone feet prevent sliding on worktops during knife removal and insertion
- Signature knife quality: Robert Welch's mid-range collection balancing performance with everyday practicality
This set suits home cooks seeking a comprehensive knife collection with integrated storage, particularly those working with limited worktop space who value both functionality and attractive kitchen displays.
What Customers Ask About Robert Welch Signature Book Oak Knife Block
What's the difference between the six knives included?
Each knife serves specific cutting tasks. The 23cm carving knife handles large joints and poultry; the 22cm bread knife's serrated edge cuts crusty loaves without compression; the 18cm cook's knife suits general chopping and slicing; the 14cm kitchen knife handles smaller vegetables and fruit; the 11cm santoku excels at precise slicing and dicing; and the 10cm paring knife manages detailed work like peeling and trimming. Together, they cover the fundamental cutting requirements for most home cooking.
How does the book-style block differ from traditional knife blocks?
Traditional blocks typically measure 200-250mm wide, whilst this book design measures just 80mm deep, allowing placement flush against walls or in narrow spaces beside cookers or preparation areas. The vertical orientation displays knives side-by-side rather than at angles, making it easier to identify and select the knife you need. The trade-off is that it requires more vertical space (360mm height) than some traditional blocks.
Will the oak block damage my worktop?
No - the block includes silicone feet specifically designed to protect worktop surfaces. These feet also prevent the block from sliding when removing or inserting knives. The solid oak construction provides sufficient weight (combined with knife weight) to maintain stability during use.
Is this set suitable as a first knife collection?
Yes, particularly if you're establishing a kitchen and need comprehensive cutting tools with integrated storage. The six knives cover fundamental tasks from detailed paring work through to carving large joints. The main consideration is whether you have 360mm of vertical clearance and prefer the book-style format - if working with very limited vertical space or preferring horizontal storage, a traditional block might suit better.
How does Signature compare to Robert Welch's other knife ranges?
Signature represents Robert Welch's mid-range collection, positioned between the entry-level Kitchen Knife range and the premium V&A collection. Signature knives typically feature molybdenum vanadium stainless steel blades with good edge retention for everyday use, at a more accessible price point than V&A's higher-specification materials. If you want Robert Welch quality without premium pricing, Signature delivers reliable performance.
Specifications
Care & Use Instructions
Knife Care: Hand wash knives immediately after use with warm water and mild detergent. Avoid dishwashers, as harsh detergents and high temperatures can damage blade edges and handles. Dry thoroughly before returning to the block to prevent moisture damage to both knives and oak wood.
Block Maintenance: Wipe the oak block with a slightly damp cloth when needed. Avoid saturating the wood or using harsh cleaning products. The oak will develop a natural patina over time - this is normal and adds character. Ensure knives are dry before storage to prevent moisture absorption into the wood.
Sharpening: Regular honing with a steel maintains blade edges between sharpenings. Professional sharpening is recommended when knives no longer respond to honing - typically annually for moderate home use. Avoid pull-through sharpeners which can damage blade geometry.
Storage: Insert knives carefully into the block slots, ensuring blades don't contact adjacent knives. The silicone feet should remain in contact with the worktop - if they become dislodged or damaged, contact us for replacements to maintain stability and surface protection.
Safety: Never leave knives loose in drawers where blades can contact each other or your hands during retrieval. The block keeps blades separated and protected whilst maintaining safe, organised storage.
Why Buy From Art of Living?
Founded in Reigate in 1972, we've spent over five decades helping customers select quality kitchenware. We've been twice nominated for the Excellence in Housewares award for customer care, and we stock Robert Welch because their British design heritage and practical approach to cutlery and cookware align with our standards for lasting quality.
Our Guarantees to You
- ✓ No Quibble Returns - Even Used Items
- ✓ Half-Price Accidental Damage Replacement (2 Years)
- ✓ Price Match Guarantee
Read our full guarantee policy →
Questions? Visit our contact page
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I've used the knives and don't like them?
Return them anyway. Our no quibble guarantee covers used items - if they don't do what you wanted, we'll refund you. This applies even after you've used the knives for food preparation. We've offered this guarantee since 1972 because we believe customers shouldn't take a risk when purchasing kitchenware.
How does the Half-Price Replacement guarantee work with a knife set?
Valid for 2 years from purchase date. If you accidentally damage a knife from this set, we'll replace that individual knife at half the current retail price of a comparable replacement with proof of purchase and evidence of damage. Photos of the damage are acceptable. This applies to each knife individually - you don't need to replace the entire set if only one knife is damaged.
Why does this require age verified delivery?
Kitchen knives are age-restricted products under UK law. Age verified delivery (£6.95) applies regardless of your order total. The delivery driver may request proof of age if you appear under 21. This legal requirement protects both customers and retailers, and applies to all knife sales for delivery.
How long does delivery take?
Standard delivery to mainland UK addresses can take up to 7 working days, but is usually 3-4. However, age verified delivery (required for knives) costs £6.95 regardless of order value. You can also collect from our shops in Cobham or Reigate, or our warehouse in Redhill - collection doesn't incur the age verified delivery charge, though ID may be requested at point of collection.
Can I buy individual knives separately if I lose or damage one?
Robert Welch Signature knives are available individually from our range, though availability varies by knife type and size. For the most cost-effective replacement within 2 years of purchase, use our Half-Price Replacement guarantee. Contact us to discuss specific knife replacements and current availability.
Will the oak block fit under wall-mounted cabinets?
At 360mm height, this block requires adequate vertical clearance. Measure the space between your worktop and the underside of any wall cabinets before purchasing. Standard UK wall cabinets typically leave 450-500mm clearance, which should accommodate this block, but kitchen configurations vary.
How do I know when the knives need sharpening?
When knives no longer cut cleanly through tomato skin or require sawing motion through onions despite regular honing, they need professional sharpening. A sharp knife should glide through these foods with minimal pressure. Regular honing with a steel (2-3 times weekly for frequent users) extends the interval between sharpenings.
Is the oak sustainably sourced?
Robert Welch specifies sustainable oak wood for this block. For specific certification details or sourcing information, contact Robert Welch directly or ask us to verify current certifications when you're ready to purchase.
|
“ Master knife selection with our expert guide. Learn blade types, steel grades, maintenance tips, and find your perfect chef's knife. 50+ years of expertise.” Read more about my views on Kitchen Knives in my article Kitchen Knife Buying Guide  by Andi HealeyArt of Living - Web Manager |
