Shoji Manufacturing Worker
しょうじせいぞうこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Specialized profession that manufactures shoji by pasting washi paper onto wooden frames. Performs a series of processes including measurement, cutting, assembly, gluing, and finishing by hand.
Description
Shoji manufacturing workers produce shoji used as fittings in homes and commercial facilities. First, they cut and process timber based on design drawings or on-site measurements, then assemble the wooden frames (lattices). Next, they cut washi paper to size, paste it evenly, and allow it to dry. After drying, they polish away dust and irregularities, apply paint or insect-proofing as needed, inspect quality, and ship the products. This work may combine traditional hand techniques with factory machinery, requiring meticulous operations, precise dimension control, and knowledge of handling washi paper.
Future Outlook
There is steady demand in Japanese-style architecture and renovation markets, but a shortage of successors is an issue. Skill succession and the introduction of automation technology to improve production efficiency will be important going forward.
Personality Traits
Dexterous hands and skilled at fine work / High concentration / Meticulous / Patient
Work Style
Factory Employment / Self-Employed Individual Workshop / Small Workshop
Career Path
Apprentice Craftsman → Skilled Worker → Instructor/Manager → Independent Business (Traditional Craft Shop)
Required Skills
Dimension Measurement / Gluing Technique / Timber Cutting Technique / Washi Paper Processing Technique / Woodworking Machine Operation
Recommended Skills
CAD Operation / Knowledge of Traditional Patterns / Painting and Finishing / Polishing and Finishing Technique
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because uniform paper pasting and dimensional accuracy are crucial. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Less need for free creativity since production follows existing designs. |
| Stress Tolerance | The work is relatively stable, with few sudden troubles. |
Related Qualifications
- Skills Proficiency Test (Joinery Fabrication)
Aliases
- Joinery Artisan
- Shoji Artisan
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