The next WWG meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, September 17, 2024 at 7:30pm via ZOOM ONLY.
The presentation will be Shoji in the Modern Shop by Brian Holcombe.
Using his production of beautiful Shoji screens as an example, Brian will present the general and specialized machinery he uses to produce precise repeatable joinery and finish cuts. Even if you never plan to build shoji, the techniques he uses and his tips for getting precise cuts will be extremely useful in many different projects.
Brian started out using hand tools exclusively to produce shoji in his shop but wanted to increase the speed and efficiency of his process, so he began incorporating machines in the joinery and detail work. Shoji making is very precise work and to replace hand work with machines, he needed the machines to at least maintain the quality while improving the process, but ideally improve both process and quality. He purchased several specialize machines and will show us how he tuned them to a high level of precision to make accurate repeatable cuts. He also discusses the modifications he’s made to common shop machines and the setup processes he uses to maintain consistent results. Website
About Brian
Brian Holcombe designs and builds original work in his Princeton, NJ shop, drawing influence from Japanese Sashimono and furniture of the Ming Dynasty, his work focuses on cabinetry, casework, tables, boxes, art framing, and traditional shoji (Japanese sliding doors). Interlocking joinery is a hallmark of his work. Brian uses methods of joinery traditionally found in furniture and those adapted from traditional Japanese timber framing. Also a skilled machinist, Brian brings a refined precision to his work, often including his own designed and handmade hardware.