This cover design, based on the Spanish chairmaking which was written about by Masashi Kutsuwa, was the result of several experiments. First, we purchased an antique blade (an English beet knife, actually) that we modified with a second (perpendicular) handle to be a cuchilla, a Spanish push knife. Then I made a wooden stop fitted to my staked bench to brace the stock while shaving. We did some experimenting to get a feel for the skill and are delighted to find that it is quite effective. We knew this technique belonged on the cover. So, a hearty “thanks” goes to Masashi for making these ways of working known to the rest of the world.
We believe that the craft is better when we embrace this kind of cultural exchange and sharing.
–Joshua