Sashimono Craftsman
さしものし
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A craftsman who handcrafts wooden products such as furniture and furnishings using traditional techniques.
Description
Sashimono craftsmen are traditional artisans who use hand tools such as chisels and planes to precisely shape wood joints and mortise-and-tenon joints, creating furniture, fittings, and furnishings with wood joinery techniques without using nails or metal fittings. They handle everything from wood selection and drying, drafting, processing, to finishing in an integrated manner, pursuing high precision and beautiful finishes. The techniques acquired through years of apprenticeship and skill refinement are characterized by balancing structural beauty and functionality that leverage the properties and grain patterns of the wood. In recent years, new demands and applications are expanding through made-to-order production, renovations, and fusion with modern designs.
Future Outlook
Although there are challenges in inheriting traditional techniques and a shortage of workers due to aging population and low birthrate, steady demand is expected from high-end furniture, made-to-order needs, and the expanding renovation market. New value creation is anticipated through design and collaborations with other fields.
Personality Traits
Excellent aesthetic sense / High concentration / Meticulous / Patient
Work Style
Freelance / Furniture Manufacturing / Sole Proprietor / Workshop Employment
Career Path
Apprentice Sashimono Craftsman → Sashimono Craftsman → Workshop Owner → Traditional Craftsman → Independent (Woodworking Workshop Management)
Required Skills
Drafting and Blueprint Reading / Hand Tool Operation / Mortise and Tenon Technique / Wood Selection and Drying Management
Recommended Skills
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because high precision in minute dimensions is strongly required. |
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | Because it takes a long time to acquire the skills, and inheritance and learning of traditional techniques are necessary. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because it requires physical stamina for long hours of standing work and handling heavy lumber. |
Related Jobs
- Carpenter
- Furniture Craftsman
- Joiner
- Woodworker