In high school, Zack gravitated toward the arts, taking courses in music, photography, ceramics, welding, woodworking, graphic design, and film editing—disciplines that felt like a natural fit. After earning a B.A. in History with a minor in Art, he began his career in graphic design and desktop publishing, drawing on the entrepreneurial roots of his family, which had a 50-year legacy in the newspaper industry.

“I come from a family of men and women who were adventurous, entrepreneurial, thoughtful, and creative. These folks were Virginians through and through, and their sense of pride, history, creativity, culture, and ‘can do’ attitude has given me the tools and traits that have led me where I am today.” – Zack Worrell

In the late ’90s, Zack and his wife launched a print and web design studio, stepping into the forefront of the multimedia and internet economy. But as the digital world rapidly shifted, Zack felt the pull toward something more hands-on and grounded. While renovating his first home—a historic 1823 farmhouse where he would raise his two children—he transitioned away from tech and into a life centered around craftsmanship, design thinking, and self-reliance.

He began working on renovation projects, designing and building solid wood furniture, collaborating on community art installations, and assisting with architectural design. In all of it, his guiding principle was simple:

"I just make stuff—it's what I do."

In 2013, Zack founded Monolith, a brand born from his love of woodworking, industrial design, and handcraft. His journey into bladesmithing and metalcraft began with a fascination for everyday tools that are as beautiful as they are functional. Inspired by the cultural traditions of the Blue Ridge, as well as the philosophies of makers like George Nakashima and Frank Lloyd Wright, Zack found his mission: to create objects with soul, purpose, and lasting value.

Today, his work reflects a commitment to honest craftsmanship, purposeful design, and aesthetic utility. Through Monolith, Zack crafts heirloom-quality tools and objects that transcend generations—pieces that are not only useful but also carry the quiet beauty of something made by hand and made to last.

 

 

                                                                                                                                                                                                         

 

NICK WATSON  -  Design and Production Manager, Lead Knife Maker

Nick Joined Monolith Knives in 2016 after graduating from the studio art department at The University of Virginia. After four years of helping develop the business’ products and craft, he left to attain a masters degree in architecture from his alma mater, and went on to work at an award winning architecture firm. Nick returned to Monolith Knives is 2025 to build from where he left off and to follow his passion for craft after gaining crucial knowledge of design, collaboration and execution through the study and practice of architecture.

 

Nick became fascinated with pocket knives as a child when his mother gifted him a Swiss Army Knife, knowing it was a tool he could rely on and always have with him. Simultaneously his love for cooking grew while making meals with his parents. Nick’s passion for the culinary arts and the tools essential to creating a meal, knives, come together in his work at Monolith Knives.

Beyond knives, Nick’s curiosity extends to furniture, architecture, fashion, and personal objects—always guided by the belief that great design is rooted in craft and a marriage of history, place, and use.When he’s not in the shop, Nick is a dad to two wonderful girls, always learning and creating in new ways.

 

 

 Monolith Staff Emeritus:

Alan Bates - Knife maker

Ryan Evans - Knife maker