Umeki Zaiku Craftsman
うめきざいくしょくにん
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Specialist who repairs and restores cracks or chipped areas in wooden products by inlaying matching wood pieces that blend with the surrounding color and grain.
Description
Umeki Zaiku Craftsmen are specialists who repair cracks and damages in furniture, fixtures, antiques, and more. They select materials matching the surrounding wood grain and color tones, filling the damaged areas with adhesive or epoxy resin mixed with wood powder. Subsequently, through finishing processes such as polishing, coloring, and painting, they make the repair traces as inconspicuous as possible. There is demand across diverse fields such as cultural property restoration, furniture repair, and interior repair, requiring meticulous handwork and design sensibility.
Future Outlook
With the growing demand in furniture repair markets and cultural property restoration, demand for craftsmen with specialized skills remains stable. Expansion of new services through integration with digital technologies and new materials is also anticipated.
Personality Traits
Excellent aesthetic sense / Meticulous attention to detail / Patient / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Commissioned Production / Freelance / Sole Proprietor / Workshop Employment
Career Path
Apprentice Craftsman → Fully-fledged Craftsman → Independent Business → Traditional Craftsman Certification → Work Exhibition Participation
Required Skills
Adhesive Techniques / Color Matching Techniques / Polishing and Finishing Techniques / Wood Knowledge / Woodworking Tool Operation
Recommended Skills
CAD Operation / Photography / Sales Skills / Traditional Woodworking Techniques
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because fine grain matching and finishing precision determine the quality of the work |
| Creativity & Ideation | Design skills are required to harmonize wood grain and colors |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Communication Skills | Because customer interactions and meetings are with small groups or individuals |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because calculations are few, and sense is valued over precision |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Because individual work is predominant and teamwork is minimal |
Related Qualifications
- National Craftworker Certification: Woodworking Technician
Aliases
- Umeki Craftsman
- Wood Infill Technician
Related Jobs
- Antique Restorer
- Lacquerware Craftsman
- Raden Inlay Craftsman
- Woodworker