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  Welcome to our detailed tutorial on mastering the Genno, the quintessential Japanese hammer. In this article, we delve into the nuances of this traditional tool, known regionally as Tsuchi or Tonkachi, and globally recognized simply as a hammer.    1: Introduction to Japanese Hammers   The Genno, also known as Tsuchi or Tonkachi, is a tool made up of a handle and a metal striking face. When made of wood, it's called Kizuchi. Its name varies regionally, but in English, it's simply a 'hammer'.      2: Genno Features   A Genno with two identical faces is a 'Ryoguchi...

  Welcome to our detailed tutorial on maintaining your Genno. Wooden handles can loosen due to drying or they may be broken while they are repeatedly used. If you notice such problems, this article may help you. *Note: Not applicable to fiberglass, pipe handles, or those fixed with adhesive. For help in those cases, please seek professional help.   1: Adjusting a Loose Handle    Hold the handle with the head up and strike it against the ground. The head should tighten from the force of the weight. Continue until it's secure.     Shave off any excess wood. Insert...

Learn about sawing techniques to help step up your woodworking game. We'll break it down step by step so that it's easy to understand and put into practice.   1: Features of Flush cut Saw   The Flush Cut saw is used to cut protruding wood, plugs (dowels), and wooden pegs.   It has no set on its teeth, so it can finish the surface of the material flatly without damaging it. Its thin blade allows flexibility to cut along materials.   It's used to hide screws and finish the appearance cleanly.     2: How to Use a Flush cut...

  Welcome to our comprehensive tutorial on using Japanese chisels, where we'll explore the techniques and intricacies of working with the ""striking chisel"" or Oire. Step-by-step guidance: Achieve a perfectly chiseled hole, from wood marking to chisel selection.     The Oire chisel There are two main types of chisels: those you strike and those you push. Today, we'll explore using the 'striking chisel,' the Oire chisel, to creating a mortise.   1: Marking the Wood Draw lines on the wood to mark where you want to chisel.For a through-hole, make sure to draw lines on both sides of the...

Learn about sawing techniques to help step up your woodworking game. We'll break it down step by step so that it's easy to understand and put into practice.   1: Features of Dozuki Saws   The dozuki saw has a thin blade with a fine pitch. It is excellent for precision work. To prevent the thin blade from bending, a back metal is attached.   It cuts with a minimum width, resulting in a very clean finish.   2: How to Use a Dozuki Saw  The basic way to use it is the same as Ryoba saws.  How to Use a...

  Welcome to our tutorial on using Japanese chisels, where we'll explore the role of the Katsura (chisel hoop) & how to adjust It working with it. We'll break it down step by step so that it's easy to understand and put into practice.   1: What is Katura?   The top of the striking chisel handle has a hoop to prevent splitting when struck. We say it "Katura" in Japanese.   Many new chisels need to have the hoop adjusted. If you strike the chisel without adjusting the hoop, it may overextend and cause 'flaring.' This flaring can eventually make the...