In traditional Japanese carpentry most structural posts rest on a foundation stone. In this workshop we will explore the ways one would connect post and stone. The central technique covered is how to carve to fit the base of the post to the contours of the foundation stone. The morning will be filled with demonstrations, discussion of proportions along with applications and of course a lot of hands on practice! The practice time will focus on scribing/carving to/fitting a square or natural round post to a stone. You will take away a firm grasp of this important skill in the context of Japanese carpentry.
Topics Covered
Initial layout and orienting post to stone
The scribing process
The cutting and fitting process
Provided Materials
Stone - That’s right! We will give you a rock with which to practice.
Post - Each student will be provided with a small length of squared stock to scribe.
Prerequisites
Familiarity with chisels and handsaws is recommended as well as previous sharpening experience or first taking the Introduction to Sharpening Workshop to get the most out of this experience. See our Prerequisites information for qualifying prior training.
Required Tools
The following tools are required to get the most out of your experience. A loner may be available but not guaranteed. A curated kit of premium Japanese tools will be available for purchase at checkout.
240mm ryoba saw
12mm(1/2”) bench chisel
At least one Japanese scribing chisel/soto maru nomi. 6,9 or 12mm. 1/4”,3/8” or 1/2”
Hammer, Square, Pencil, Eraser.
Scribing tool, Compass or Dividers.
Optional Tools
Sashigane (Japanese square)
Included in Friday Registration for the Maine Japanese Woodworking Festival
This special workshop is part of the Maine Japanese Woodworking Festival. Click below to learn more and register for the festival:
For recommended tools for this class and your woodworking career: