What is kumiko?

 

Kumiko are small parts of shoji (Japanese traditional paper sliding door

consisting of a wooden framework covered with washi.)

 

The best material to make kumikowork is Japanese cypress well airdried.

We make it from scratch. First of all we select the materials,

rip cypress and plane it precise 1mm thickness, considering temperature and humidity having great influence on wood.

 

In vertical parts, cut it at an angle of 60°at both sides 1/3depth.

In oblique parts, cut it at an angle of 60°at 2/3depth and at an angle of 120°at 1/2depth.

The name of this technique is called mitsukude.

 

In error by more than 0.1 millimeter and 1° you can’t assemble it.

Using these two types parts, we assemble the base called jigumi.

Jigumi is an assembly of equilateral triangles.

 

After that we make kiriko that is small parts assembled in jigumi.

We use several woods to take advantage of the natural color and let kumiko has the charm of variety.

 

To make kiriko, we use haganna plane dedicated only for kumikoworks.

Using this hagannaplane, notch and bevel the edge at an angle of 30°or 45°or60°or90°or120°.

 

In a slight error, it is going to be tight or loose. Only craftsman’s experience depends.

We need the accuracy of length and angles. We often make same parts more than thousands.

 

After that we assemble kiriko into the jigumi one by one with hands with no glue or nails.

It is a very delicate and enduring work. That is why it takes time to become a kumikocraftsman.

 

Kumiko has a long history.

It is said that in 18th century kumiko techniques has been handed down from china as a part of the structure like shrines and temples.

After that kumiko techniques has gone through unique development in Japan and reached its present form.

 

Now because of westernization of Japanese people’s lifestyle and decline in demand, young successor is decreasing.

Same as the any Japanese traditional works the shortage of successor are very concern.

We do believe we have to hand down kumikoworks to the next generation

Now you can see the craftsmanship and long history and the kumiko’s future behind the beauty intricate patterns of kumikoworks.