Wood Stamp Maker
もくばんこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Artisan who carves designs into wooden boards to produce printing plates.
Description
Wood stamp makers transfer the layout (design) onto hard wood boards such as cherry or zelkova, and carve images and text into relief or intaglio using carving knives. The completed woodblocks are used in hand-rubbed woodblock printing or industrial printing, and through printing on paper or fabric, they are applied to books, prints, wrapping paper, etc. In traditional crafts, they may produce ukiyo-e prints, and in recent years, they also handle design plate production.
Future Outlook
Although demand is declining due to the spread of digital printing, limited niche demand is maintained in traditional culture preservation and art/souvenir markets.
Personality Traits
Work Style
Freelance / Printing / Traditional Craft Organizations / Workshop Employment
Career Path
Apprentice → Craftsman → Skilled Wood Stamp Maker → Technical Instructor → Independent Business
Required Skills
Carving Knife Operation / Design Reading / Knowledge of Wood Types and Properties / Woodblock Printing
Recommended Skills
Basic Design Knowledge / CAD Data Creation / Digital Image Processing
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | High attention to detail is required for precise carving work. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because manual work is the main focus rather than mathematical calculations. |
Related Qualifications
- Woodworking Technician
Related Jobs
- Printer
- Printmaker
- Sculptor