Japanese Joinery by Dorian Bracht

Japanese Joinery showcases traditional and modern Japanese joinery techniques through beautiful photography and detailed illustrations.

Japanese joinery is viewed by many as being an art as well as a craft. This is borne out by the intricate design and craftsmanship of the joints highlighted in this book. Over 50 different joints are showcased, ranging from traditional joints, which have been used over hundreds of years, to the most recent innovations in Japanese joint design.

The joints are illustrated by photographs of both complete and deconstructed, as well as carefully hand-drawn technical illustrations. The accompanying text describes the history of each joint, how they are used, variations, and tips on how the joints are constructed. There is also a comprehensive section on Japanese woodworking tools. Both inspirational and hands-on, this exciting new book is a "must have" for woodworkers at all levels.

Dorian Bracht's extensive carpentry experience provides readers with a comprehensive guide to the world of traditional Japanese joinery and its influence throughout the world on woodworking and joinery today.

Born in Los Angeles in 1986, Dorian Bract spent his early years in California and Hong Kong. After finishing school, he embarked on an apprenticeship in Leipzig Germany to learn how to build Japanese shoji and fusuma sliding doors, as well as solid wood furniture. Throughout this time, Dorian learned both traditional German and Japanese woodworking techniques. Having a huge passion for joinery and woodcraft, Dorian has been working as a talented woodworker since 2012. Japanese Joinery is his first book and is an amalgamation of his knowledge and talent in joinery. He is based in Berlin.

Review Quotes:

"...a fascinating exploration on the art of woodworking, centering around its namesake. Traditional Japanese joinery has a reputation for being intricate and precise. This book will not dissuade you from that opinion, but it will break down and present the joints in a way that's easier for a Western woodworker to get a grasp on." --Woodsmith

"The book begins with an overview of Japanese tools and furniture-making techniques...The main part of the book is made up of over 50 joints, including both traditional and more modern innovations. Each is described in detail and supported with clear diagrams and photographs of the finished joint...Dorian's enthusiasm for joint making is infectious and will surely inspire readers to pick up their tools!"--Furniture & Cabinet Making