Kumiko is a Japanese wood craft technique that uses no nails or hardware, just precise joints to keep furniture and even houses together. It is intricate and functional and a lot of fun to make. Using a small tool set and simple techniques this quiet craft can yield some spectacular pieces.
The traditional handicraft has been handed down for centuries but now artisans are taking the age old concept and applying the designs to more modern-day household items.
The designs for Kumikopieces aren’t chosen randomly. In fact, many of the nearly 200 patterns used today have been around since the Edo era (1603-1868). Each design has a meaning or is mimicking a pattern in nature that is thought to be a good omen. The designs are not just pretty, they also distribute light and wind in a calming and beautiful way.
Our Japanese Kumiko Woodwork courses are led by Auram Desforges, who grew up working on wood frame houses with his father in Canada and has devised these courses. It may look complicated but in reality, like all woodwork – it’s just a series of steps.
We offer two projects. One is a Kumiko lamp. The course uses traditional Japanese tools and includes the fitting of the bulb and switch. This course is held over six evenings and is suitable for confident beginners and anyone up for a fun challenge.
We also offer a weekend one day workshop making Kumiko tiles or coasters. This one day course shows you the basics of setting out and cutting the traditional designs. Once you have the techniques down you can repeat the design to build up as many as you like.
View all of our upcoming Kumiko Workshops and Courses here >>
