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Kumiko

Japanese joinery projects with a modern twist

Kumiko cover

Kumiko

Japanese joinery projects with a modern twist

Quantity
Pre-order. Available Oct 06 2026
$36.00 RRP $40.00 Website price saving $4.00 (10%)

Payment for this pre-order will be taken when the item becomes available

Description

Learn the art of kumiko (latticework joinery) with these 10 projects that combine ancient techniques and modern innovation to make decorative items for the home.

Kumiko expert Johnny Tromboukis starts with an introduction to the history and cultural significance of the craft, then takes you on a step-by-step journey through the fundamentals of kumiko woodwork, where you will learn about essential tools, materials, and techniques.

Detailed instructions and clear photographs and diagrams show you how to use bench saws and jigs to create the intricate geometric lattices, and tips are also provided for producing them by hand. Each chapter builds on the last, gradually advancing from simple designs to more complex patterns, ensuring steady progress and building confidence.

The projects show ways you can use the geometric patterns (including a coffee table, coasters, lamps, and even a lightshade where the grid is bent into a cylinder) and contain practical advice on finishing, mounting, and preserving kumiko grids to ensure that these items are both beautiful and durable.

Woodworkers of all levels can find inspiration to create stunning, intricate pieces that celebrate the harmony of traditional and contemporary design.

Table of Contents

Introduction
1: Tools and Materials for Kumiko
2: Making Square Grids
3: Making Diamond and Hexagon Grids
4: Making Square Kumiko Patterns
5: Making Hexagonal Kumiko Patterns
6: Framing a Kumiko Panel

7: The Projects

Project 1: Kumiko Coasters
Project 2: Shoji-Inspired Decorative Panel
Project 3: Kumiko Serving Tray
Project 4: Light Panel
Project 5: Kumiko Andon
Project 6: Cabinet with Kumiko Door
Project 7: Kawa Table
Project 8: Japanese Toolbox
Project 9: Kumiko and Epoxy
Project 10: Bent Kumiko Evening Lamp

8: Kumiko Design Principles
9: Final Thoughts

Glossary
Appendix One: Japanese Words and Terms
Appendix Two: Conversion Table: Inches to Millimeters
About the Author

Product details

Published Oct 06 2026
Format Paperback
Edition 1st
Extent 176
ISBN 9781789943825
Imprint Herbert Press
Illustrations Fully illustrated with color photographs and diagrams
Dimensions 246 x 189 mm
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing

About the contributors

Author

Johnny Tromboukis

Johnny Tromboukis is a fine woodworker specializin…

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Environment: Staging