Inspired by the Welsh legend of King Arthur’s dagger, Carnwennan — also known as “Little White Hilt” — My university project explored the connection between mythology, craftsmanship, and digital design. While Excalibur is the most recognised weapon in Arthurian lore, Carnwennan is said to possess mystical abilities, including the power to cloak its wielder in shadow. This mystery allowed me to creatively reinterpret the dagger through modern making techniques while staying rooted in Celtic symbolism and medieval aesthetics. I imagined the weapon crafted from white holly wood, chosen for its pale colour, fine grain, and strong connection to Welsh folklore and woodland landscapes.

The design process combined Fusion modelling, resin printing, mould-making, casting, and hand-finishing to create a detailed physical interpretation of the dagger. I focused heavily on symmetry, proportion, and vertical flow, using Celtic knotwork leading up to a woman’s body as the central visual feature of the handle. Symbolic elements were also integrated into the design, including the Welsh word “cysgod” (shadow) engraved into the handle to reference the dagger’s mythical power. A subtle figurative form inspired by the female chest and collarbones was incorporated into the upper handle to soften the structure and introduce a more organic, human presence. To preserve the precision of the digital model, the handle was first resin printed before being moulded and cast. The final cast was hand-painted to resemble carved wood, creating the illusion of traditional craftsmanship while using contemporary fabrication methods. A key technical decision involved embedding the blade into the mould while curing, allowing the dagger to become one solid piece without later drilling or assembly. The final outcome successfully bridges mythology, symbolism, and modern digital making, translating an overlooked Arthurian artifact into a cohesive sculptural object that reflects both historical inspiration and contemporary design practice.