Kumiko woodworking is one of the most ancient Japanese techniques, dating back over 1000 years. It’s a craft that requires highly skilled practitioners.
It uses a combination of horizontal and vertical lines to form grids that are fitted into frames, which can then be used to create sliding doors or shoji screens. There are several hundred variations of this art, each requiring the use of appropriate tools and patterns.
History
Kumiko woodworking is a traditional Japanese art that involves intricate patterns and designs created by fitting thin pieces of wood together without the use of nails or glue. The technique is used primarily in the construction of shoji screens and other decorative elements.
The earliest known kumiko panels were made during the Asuka period of Japanese history. Since then, this style of craftsmanship has been an integral part of Japanese interior design.
The geometric patterns of kumiko are inspired by aspects of nature and often have a traditional meaning or symbol. For example, the Asanoha pattern resembles sesame seeds and is thought to promote good health. The Kikko pattern resembling a tortoise’s shell is also very common and is thought to ward off evil spirits.
Techniques
Kumiko woodworking is a centuries-old Japanese tradition that combines geometry, patterns and clean lines to produce delicate works of art. With the use of a small investment in basswood, a chisel, saw and guide blocks, you can begin to build your own decorative kumiko panels that you can hang on the wall or incorporate into furniture designs.
Kumiko panels are made from hundreds of interlocking wooden pieces. The pieces are slotted together with equal dispersion of pressure, forming a symmetrical geometric pattern.
These patterns are all inspired by nature and hold a specific meaning. For example, the sakura (cherry blossom) pattern is used to encourage and hope for good harvests.
The yae pattern is another popular design that requires the skill and patience of a master craftsman. It consists of layers of tortoiseshell patterns that are linked one over another to create the impression of autumn leaves.
Materials
Kumiko woodworking is a complex and time-consuming art that requires precision and patience. It consists of thin pieces of wood that are cut and pressure fit together to create complex geometric patterns.
Traditional patterns have a variety of meanings and are thought to symbolise strength, health, beauty and longevity. They are used in a wide range of items including furniture, trays, and wall art.
Choosing the right wood for kumiko is critical. Ideally, you want boards that have little defects and minimal color differences.
We also recommend using a wood with fine grain such as Japanese cedar or cypress. These woods are renowned for their durability and develop character with use.
Patterns
Kumiko woodworking is a traditional Japanese art technique that involves creating intricate and precise geometric patterns using small, interlocking pieces of wood. It is typically used to create decorative screens, sliding doors, and other elements in Japanese architecture and furniture.
It is a quiet and thoughtful craft that requires a high level of skill, patience, and precision to create beautiful results. Professional furniture maker Matt Kenney shares how to incorporate this quiet technique into your own projects in this course.
Kumiko is a design that uses no nails or metal fasteners, relying on the friction created between small, interlocking pieces of wood to hold a structure together. It is a very popular art in Asia and has gained popularity in the West as well.
Finishing
The finishing techniques used in kumiko woodworking vary based on the skill level of the woodworker. Typically, Japanese hand planes are used to plane the strips to an even and consistent thickness.
Using this technique allows the woodworker to achieve more control in their work, as well as a cleaner finished product. The process is a gradual one, and the finish will be smooth and shimmery.
While the technique of kumiko is rooted in Japan, it can be found throughout the world. Today, this delicate and sophisticated art is being used to create furniture with a sense of meaning beyond function.
