Japanese Tools & Timber Weekend | Nov 4 - 5

We miss the wood shows - so we are putting together a mini one, with some very tasty Japanese flavours!

For one weekend only, the JTA workshop will be transformed by two very special guests and some great family-focused woodworking activities.

Our first friend that we would like you to meet is the moustachio'd mischief maker himself, Greg Hehir. Greg is the proprietor of Carving and Turning Timber Sales, purveyor and peddler of a huge range of absolutely gorgeous timbers. Greg will be driving up a van load of his finest from Melbourne, all stickered up and priced to sell. If you have been hanging out for some special wood your current project, or just need a nice piece to inspire your next one, Greg will have just the tonic. 

We are also excited to be laying out the red carpet for Tetsu Tools. If you are yet to discover Tetsu (pronounced 'Tets'), you are in for a treat. Based in Geelong, Tetsu is a self-confessed tool tragic, blacksmith botherer and antiques dealer. What a combination. His warehouse is filled to the brim with not only amazing Japanese antiques, but also the most mind-bending collection of vintage Japanese tools outside of the home islands. We have taken Japanese carpenters to see Tetsu's warehouse, who told us they hadn't seen such a collection of antique and second hand tools in any Japanese shop. High praise indeed.

Tetsu will be setting up out a selection of his tools, some in need of a restoration, some painstakingly restored and sharpened by him, and some new in the box but decades old. Tetsu's tools are an amazing opportunity to browse a Tokyo-quality tool market without having to fork out for the plane ticket.

As well as these very special vendors, JTA will be doing our part to make the weekend a great time for all ages. We will be running our famous chopstick making, as well as trying out a new activity for us - coaster making, using Japanese hinoki. Perfect for creative kids and adults alike.

Also on deck will be Nari of Hazuki Knife. A masterful sharpener and extremely knowledgeable about everything related to steel and waterstones, Nari will be demonstrating sharpening processes and demystifying what is actually required to get a good cutting edge.

Finally, our very own Tomoko will be demonstrating the process of miso-making, using Christian's handmade cedar fermenting barrel. Try for yourself the difference between a one-year old miso and a three-year old miso, and get inspired to try this traditional fermenting process yourself.

Of course, we'll have all our tools out for you to try, and we'll be taking shavings, making cuts, talking turkey and having a grand old time all weekend. Can't wait for you to join us!