Japanese woodworking tools cover

Japanese woodworking tools

by Toshio Ōdate

The classic work on the tools and spirit of the Japanese master craftsman. 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. Japanese Woodworking Tools brings the traditions and training of the shokunin to the Western world. Calling on his own apprenticeship as a tategu-shi (sliding-door maker), and on 40 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, axes, hammers, and almost 50 different planes. Odate shows shows how each tool works, how it should be cared for and how it is meant to be used. He also shares stories and reminiscences that help bring home the traditions and spirit associated with each tool. Whether you're a curious beginner or an adventurous professional, Japanese Woodworking Tools will show you a whole new world of exciting craftsmanship.

Chappie’s discussion starters

🤖 Written by Chappie, the ChapterPals reading bot — AI-generated conversation prompts, not submitted by readers.

  1. Which character stayed with you after you turned the last page, and why?
  2. Was there a moment where you disagreed with a character’s choice? What would you have done?
  3. What theme did this book keep circling back to — and did it earn its ending?
  4. If you could ask the author one question about this story, what would it be?
  5. Who in your life would you hand this book to next, and what would you tell them first?