SHOJI & KUMIKO: 85 VINTAGE DESIGNS features vintage Shoji and Kumiko patterns from a c1930 Japanese architectural proposal book of designs in the collection of Gary Roberts, Publisher: Toolemera Press.

SHOJI & KUMIKO: 85 VINTAGE DESIGNS is a precision facsimile reprint of an original c1930 Japanese architectural proposal book of designs. This one of a kind proposal book is an essential period reference for anyone interested in the history of Shoji and Kumiko as well as a design reference for use by modern makers.SHOJI: A Japanese screen or sliding door used to partition living spaces. KUMIKO: A decorative and practical Japanese woodworking system consisting of lattice pieces held together through precision joinery lacking any nails or other metal supports. SHOJI & KUMIKO: 85 VINTAGE DESIGNS was produced from the original in the collection of Gary Roberts, Publisher: Toolemera Press. www.toolemerapress.com

Book 3 Hexagonal Patterns is the third and final book in the Shoji and Kumiko Design series, and follows on seamlessly from Book 2 - Beyond the Basics. In Book 3, Des King gives detailed, step-by-step instructions on making 45 stunning patterns in the hexagonal jigumi arrangement, ranging from the very simple, to the highly complex and extremely difficult. More than 500 photographs and diagrams guide you at each stage on making these patterns using tools found in any Western workshop, and simple shop-made jigs. As with Book 1 and Book 2, no specialised tools are required for any of the patterns covered in Book 3. The patterns in this book are indeed items of art, and can be applied in a broad range of furniture and artistic designs to set your work apart from all others.

Book 4 Diamond Patterns is the fourth book in the Shoji and Kumiko Design series, and follows on seamlessly from Book 3 Hexagonal Patterns. In Book 4, Des King gives detailed instructions on making 31 stunning patterns in the diamond (hishi-gata) jigumi arrangement, including the spectacular yotsu-kude four-way joint and tombo dragonfly pattern.More than 350 photographs and diagrams guide you at each stage on making these patterns using tools found in any Western workshop, and simple shop-made jigs. As with Books 1, 2 and 3, no specialized tools are required for any of the patterns covered in Book 4.

Shoji Hamada, along with Bernard Leach, was one of the key figures in the development of studio pottery in the 20th century. His influence both in England and the US as well as in his native Japan cannot be underestimated. The Japanese government designated him a Living National Treasure" in 1955 and awarded him the Order of Culture in 1968. This book has been totally redesigned with colour photographs and a new chapter."

Featuring over 100 unique prints, Modern Japanese Prints is a testament to the continuity of Japanese art and creativity. By far the most vitally creative group of artists working in Japan today, modern print-makers are truly international in appeal. Although they owe much of their heritage to the famous ukiyoe techniques of the past, they depart from their forebears in at least two important respects. In the first place, whereas in the ancient ukiyoe tradition a print was the joint production of three men— the artist-designer, the artisan who carved the blocks, and the printer—these modern artists perform all these functions themselves, thus satisfying their demands for individual artistic expression at every step of the creative process. Another distinguishing feature of this artistic school is that its inspiration is derived neither solely from its own Japanese past nor solely from the West. This book carefully traces the history of the modern print movement through detailed discussions of the life and work of twenty-nine of its most noteworthy and representative artists. It describes vicissitudes which the movement has undergone and the high artistic ideals which have motivated its members in spite of public apathy and the hostility of the traditionalists.

Kumiko is a delicate and sophisticated technique of assembling wooden pieces into beautiful patterns without the use of nails, and Matt Kenney's latest book offers step by step instructions that can't be found in print elsewhere. Kenney, a former editor at Fine Woodworking is at the forefront of a revival in interest in Kumiko. He has included Kumiko in both his furniture designs and as stand-alone framed panels that highlight the work. Kenney's methods are reimagined for the modern workshop but still require precise handwork that pays homage to the craft.