For Their Craft, There Is No Training in Germany - You Won't Get Rich Either

Romeo Weiß, a seventh-generation scissor grinder, is a rare craftsman in Germany. In an era where sustainability is highly valued, his skills are in demand. He operates a mobile workshop, accepting all items with blades, including scissors, knives, and garden tools. Currently, he is back in Ravensburg to provide his services. His son, Maurice, 28, takes on the hands-on work that requires great skill and experience, while the 53-year-old Romeo engages with customers, offering insights on what is worth sharpening and tips on caring for their tools, such as advising against putting good knives in the dishwasher. One of his most extraordinary tasks involved sharpening a samurai sword, which took him a week to perfect. He recalls the fascination he felt, comparing the sword's sharpness to a legendary scene from the movie "The Bodyguard," where a falling silk scarf is sliced by a still blade. The passion for his craft runs deep in the family, as Romeo began sharpening knives at the tender age of eight. The death of his father was a pivotal moment, leading him to realize he must continue his father's legacy. Although one cannot become wealthy from this trade, it provides a decent living for the family. Romeo's brother also works as a mobile scissor grinder, and his two sons have followed in the family tradition. Even his wife and daughter have tried their hand at this craft, which lacks formal training in Germany. This profession, which evolved from the work of swordsmiths, became a wandering craft in the 17th century. Maurice, who has been trained by his father since he was seven, has no doubts about continuing the family business. He attended a 'wandering school' where he received performance assessments from various schools as they traveled. His brother has also pursued a goldsmith apprenticeship. The times have changed, and scissor grinders no longer roam neighborhoods with their sharpening carts. However, Romeo still makes house calls upon customer request and accepts items for sharpening at their home in Neustadt an der Weinstraße. In Ravensburg, they will be available from May 11 to 18 at the Edeka market on Meersburgerstraße, welcoming customers from 11 AM to 5 PM on weekdays and 11 AM to 3 PM on Saturday. For seniors unable to bring their items, Romeo offers home visits and can be reached at 01577/2994238.