"We've earned twice as much revenue as I expected [for] this point in June," says Swanson, of the company's recent growth.
The addition square footage has allowed Swanson to build out the retail side of the business—unique, handmade blades from the United States and Japan. In the first quarter of 2013, DC Sharp had an inventory of 50 blades. They've expanded to more than 300 different pieces. "We hope to offer between 500 and 600 knives by the end of the summer," he says.
Carrying a large inventory allows customers to "try before they buy," a philosophy central to DC Sharp. While he realizes that competition from online retailers can be tough, Swanson says he has cultivated relationships with bladesmiths and suppliers in the United States and Japan so that he can offer customers competitive prices. "I can compete with online prices," he states. "We encourage you to try as many products as possible. You want to make sure the knife fits and feels right."
The service side of DC Sharp has also grown, thanks, Swanson says, to his brother Ryan's presence. "He really runs the business now, in addition to being a master sharpener." He relates that his brother recently refurbished a WWII bayonet for a customer. The company has also added four part-time employees and is looking for a few more.
DC Sharp has added additional business clients to its cutlery rental program, and can now say that they service knives for the White House, the Ritz Carlton, José Andrés and Bryan Voltaggio.
Despite the celebrity clientele, Swanson's core belief has remained the same: "Every job has to be perfect."