Japanese
Woodworking Tools
Their Tradition, Spirit and Use
by Toshio Odate
Softcover
230 x 305mm
189pp
Published by Stobart Davies, Hertford, UK
R.R.P.$39.90
ISBN 0-85442-075-4
Extract from back cover of book:
In Japan, a woodworker spends years learning to use his tools with great speed and skill. Only after he has proved his mastery can he proudly call himself a shokunin, a master craftsman.
This exciting book brings the traditions and training of the shokunin to woodworkers in the Western world. Calling on his own apprenticeship as a tategu-shi (sliding door maker), and on 50 years of woodworking experience, Toshio Odate here offers a complete guide to Japanese tools: thin saws that cut on the pull stroke, laminated chisels with hollowed backs, marking tools, waterstones for sharpening, axes, hammers and almost 50 different planes.
Odate shows how each tool works, how it should be sharpened and cared for, and how it is meant to be used. He also shares stories and reminiscences that help bring home the spiritual tradition associated with each tool.
Whether you are a curious beginner or an adventurous professional, this book will show you a whole new world of craftsmanship.
Photos: Black & White
Units of Measurement: Imperial
Contents
Dedication and Acknowledgements
Introduction
Chapter 1 - The Workshop (Shigoto-Ba)
Chapter 2 - Marking Tools (Sumitsuke-Dogu)
Chapter 3 - Saws (Nokogiri)
Chapter 4 - Chisels (Nomi)
Chapter 5 - Planes (Kanna)
Chapter 6 - Sharpening Stones (Toishi)
Chapter 7 - Sharpening (Togi)
Chapter 8 - Adze and Axes (Chona and Ono)
Chapter 9 - Hammers (Tsuchi)
Chapter 10 - Gimlets (Kiri)
Chapter 11 - Knives and Other Tools (Kogatana and Kodgu)
Afterword
Notes
Index