Setting Up a Japanese Chisel

About

Join master carpenter (tōryō) Jeff Bearce in this interactive online workshop dedicated to traditional Japanese chisel set-up and strategies for tool use. Previous experience helpful but not required. In partnership with Kezurou-kai USA. Advanced registration is required (maximum capacity of 20). Tickets: $50/$40 members. Event registration includes 1 ticket to the on-site gallery exhibition.

Items recommended for the chisel set-up class:
1. Chisel, preferably a Japanese bench chisel. For beginning sharpeners, chisels about 3/4” wide will be easiest to sharpen.
2. Three water stones: coarse (1000-1200 grit); medium (4,000 to 5,000 grit) fine (8,000 to 10,000 grit). Alternatively, a simpler two stone set kit may suffice: 1200 and 8,000 grits are then recommended.
3. A flattening device for the water stones—either wet/dry sandpaper and a flat glass or granite slab; or a minimum 3”x8” diamond stone (DMT brand or similar) at about 1000 grit (this may also serve as one’s coarse sharpening stone).
4. An angle finding device for determining bevel angle: e.g., the General Tools Square Head Angle Protractor (under $10), or similar.
5. Hammer
6. Sharp chisel or small carving knife for adjusting the wood handle when setting the steel hoop (a sharp Exacto knife works in a pinch).

Online