I made my first knife in 1978, out of an old file. Knife making was a hobby until I retired and now make them full time. My wife, Lucy, and I live on Sapelo Island, Georgia and I collect local live oak for most of my handles. This wood has been felled by wind or age so no trees are killed in the process.
I use Ats-34 stainless steel almost exclusively but can make your knife out of whatever steel you prefer.
This is one of my locking liner folders. The blade is ATS-34 Stainless Steel with Sapelo live oak scales, brass bolsters and 304 stainless liners.