Always wanted to try your hand at traditional Japanese craftsmanship? Then don’t miss the Monozukuri Takumi no Waza Expo 2017, an upcoming August event that’s all about Japanese crafts and workshops. Ahead of the big show, we recently had a chance to test out one of the featured crafts for ourselves.
Arriving at the Sakura Hostel in Asakusa, we joined a group of keen guests all ready to attempt making a traditional Japanese zabuton (cushion). Now, you may be thinking ‘why a cushion’? Isn’t that just a pillow stuffed with cotton? Well, let’s just say it’s a lot easier said than done.
Coaching us in the art was expert cushion-maker Hisayoshi Nohara, owner of his namesake zabuton shop, Nohara, who taught us the art and craft behind this familiar item. In short, the zabuton is carefully constructed by layering and folding cotton over and over until you end up with a perfect square. This is then stuffed inside a cushion cover and finished off with fine detailing.
We were first shown the step-by-step process by Nohara himself, who of course made it all look super easy. But when our turn came, we needed quite a bit of help along the way to remember the exact steps – all to make sure our cushion would come out nice and lump-free, of course. It’s amazing how the massive pile of cotton we began with eventually transformed into a sturdy yet comfortable square.
We finished the entire process in about an hour, but it was definitely no easy feat. No doubt it would take years of fine-tuning to get this whole cushion technique down pat. Crafting a handmade zabuton is an admirable practice and although it might not look that difficult, a lot of love goes into each one of these cushions. We left the workshop with our new zabuton in tow and filled with new appreciation for this time-honoured pursuit.
If you want to make your own zabuton or perhaps give another traditional Japanese craft a try, the Monozukuri Takumi no Waza Expo is the perfect place to start. It’s set to feature an exciting lineup of hands-on activities, workshops and stage events at the Tokyo International Forum from August 9 to 11.
With a wide variety of projects to choose from, the event focuses on four key sections: metalwork, interior finishing, cookery and kimono-making. Learn how to wear a Japanese summer yukata (cotton kimono), try out the traditional practice of kumiko (woodwork) with expert artisans, become a master at vegetable carving or compete in a spinning top tournament – the possibilities are endless.
Showcasing the best of Japan’s craftsmanship as well as the latest in cutting-edge manufacturing technology, the expo is sure to have something for everyone.
Monozukuri Takumi no Waza Expo 2017 August 9-11, 10am-6pm (ends at 4pm on Aug 11). Free entry. Tokyo International Forum, Hall E and Lobby Gallery, 3-5-1 Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku. monozukuri-takumi-expo.tokyo.