In part 2 of our 2 part March 2018 interview, Kohei Yamamoto and Jonathan Stollenmeyer of Soma Cousha discuss their connection with tools, Kezurou Kai in Japan and how they’ve participated in a renewed interest in hewing. And finally touching on what would be their dream project.  

In part 1 of our 2 part March 2018 interview, Kohei Yamamoto and Jonathan Stollenmeyer of Soma Cousha discuss Ishibatate, their specialty with Japanese carpentry. Including a brief history on the style, they discuss what attracted them and the increasing appreciation for this traditional knowledge.    

Soma Cousha is a multi-disciplinary design studio located in Okayama, Japan. Kohei and Jon strive to create contemporary design that is made to last. They believe in a holistic approach to design and the process of making. Focusing on the importance of quality materials and craftsmanship they ensure their designs embody a narrative rooted in history yet relevant to today. Allowing their designs to outlive trends and maintain a sense of timeless beauty. 

Karl Bareis of Santa Cruz Timberframes presented on Japanese Architecture by during the KEZ USA 2018 in Peekskill, NY. This lecture shares knowledge gathered over 40 years timber framing and during numerous trips to Japan, including leading 16 tours specifically focused on sharing Japanese approaches to architectural design.

Wilbur Pan of Giant Cypress presented his analysis on the common ground between Japanese and Western tools at KEZ USA 2018. He’s a fantastic presenter. He makes his highly technical and in-depth research amazing accessible. It’s a wonderful presentation that shares valuable information for seasoned woodworkers as well as those new to woodworking or the Japanese tools.

In part 2 of our 2 part March 2018 interview, Dale Brotherton of Takumi Company discusses his approach to woodworking, his incredible useful book – Sharpening and the Japanese Plane in Depth, and thoughts toward the future for the Japanese woodworking community.

In part 1 of our 2 part March 2018 interview, Dale Brotherton of Takumi Company discusses how he began working in the Japanese tradition and how his relationship to his work has evolved.

In early March, I interviewed Dale Brotherton on behalf of Kezurou Kai USA. He is the owner and operator of Takumi Company based in Seattle. And, the man with whom I apprenticed from 1999 to 2008. It was a wonderful opportunity to discuss his inspirations and share his experiences with the Japanese woodworking community.