The Art of Kumiko
Beyond mere joinery: "The Art of Kumiko" unveils the meditative art of transforming wood into timeless beauty.
Kumiko is a delicate and sophisticated art created by assembling small wooden pieces into beautiful patterns, and Matt Kenney’s latest book offers step-by-step instructions for 10 patterns, with a level of detail that cannot be found in print elsewhere.
Also included are cutting diagrams for several original decorative wall panels that make use of the patterns taught in the book. In The Art of Kumiko you'll learn Kenney’s methods for making Kumiko, which combine the accuracy and efficiency of modern woodworking equipment with the precision of hand tools to create beautiful pieces. You'll also learn how to incorporate Kumiko in both furniture designs and as stand-alone framed panels that pay homage to this centuries-old craft.
MATT KENNEY grew up making things such as tree forts and skate ramps from wood. Now he’s a furniture maker whose passion for the craft drives him to share his knowledge and experience with other woodworkers. He’s written dozens of magazine articles, been featured in instructional videos, and is the author of 52 Boxes in 52 Weeks (Taunton Press), which chronicles his effort to design and make 52 boxes during the course of a year. Happily, he was successful. Matt also teaches woodworking at schools around the United States and overseas. He’s co-host of a bi-weekly podcast, “The Matt and Joe Woodworking Fun Hour,” that documents co-host Joe Faraoni’s journey as Matt teaches him woodworking. A former editor at Fine Woodworking, Matt is at the forefront of a revival in interest in kumiko. When he’s not woodworking, you’ll likely find him drawing robots. Check out what he’s up to in the shop and at the drawing table by following his Instagram accounts @mekwoodworks and @thebookofrobots. Matt lives and works in Watertown, CT.
