Sashimono

Japanese Wood Joinery

“Sashimono” is a technique for assembling furniture and other wooden items without nails, using both simple and highly complex wood joints. Mortises or grooves called ‘hozo’ are carved into the wood in order to join two boards in a blind joint that’s not visible from the surface.

The term “Sashimono” derives from the traditional practice of using a woodwork ruler called a “monosashi” to carefully measure timber materials.

Edo Sashimono

“Edo Sashimono” refers to the wood joinery that evolved through the 17th to 19th centuries. The technique was introduced in cabinetwork for Samurai families and wealthy merchants. The joints of Edo Sashimono are made so they’re barely seen from the outside. Although delicate in appearance, the joinery is strong and lasts generations. Edo Sashimono is designated by the Japanese Government as a Traditional Craft of Japan.

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