Discover the beauty and precision of kumiko wood latticework and assemble your own decorative wooden coaster in this hands-on workshop.
Kumiko is a woodworking method in which thin, delicate pieces of wood are precisely cut and fitted together without nails to form intricate geometric patterns. Dating back to the Kamakura period (1185–1333), kumiko is often found in Japanese architectural fittings (tategu) such as shōji – translucent, sliding partition screens; ranma – decorative transoms; and tsuitate – freestanding, movable partition screens.
Led by Japan House London staff, this small-group workshop offers an introduction to the craftsmanship behind kumiko, as featured in the exhibition The Craft of Carpentry: Drawing Life from Japan’s Forests. The session includes a short guided visit to the Gallery, where guests explore an elaborate kumiko folding screen, crafted from multiple types of natural wood to depict a mist-covered mountainous landscape. Participants then assemble pre-cut pieces of hinoki cypress to create an asa-no-ha (hemp leaf) pattern kumiko coaster, which they can take home.
The kumiko materials used in the workshop are intricately crafted by Sakae Tategu Kōgei, a leading tategu maker responsible for the folding screen on display in the Gallery.
The workshops are part of a programme of events surrounding the exhibition The Craft of Carpentry: Drawing Life from Japan’s Forests on display in the Japan House London Gallery and developed in collaboration with the Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum in Japan.
Workshops are held weekly throughout the exhibition period. Tickets are released every Tuesday for workshops taking place two weeks later.
Please note: This event involves direct contact with natural wood and may not be suitable for those with wood allergies.
Tickets for the event are non-refundable. Please read our Terms and Conditions for Event Tickets before purchasing your ticket.
The workshop lasts around 45 minutes.
Please note that filming and photography may take place at this event. Photos and footage of the event may then be used to promote Japan House London, helping more people to discover what we offer. If you have any concerns, please contact us online or contact a member of the team on site.
