“Kumiko” or “Kumiko Zaiku” refers to a traditional Japanese decorative craft technique used to create wooden panels from smaller, basic elements without the use of nails or glue. Originally, kumiko was commonly used in the creation of ranma – the patterned elements placed between sliding doors and the ceiling, through which light and air entered the room. Kumiko grids also appear in the shoji sliding screens or decorative panels used to embellish interiors.
The Technique
Kumiko is typically crafted from valuable woods such as Japanese cypress (hinoki) or Japanese cedar (sugi). The wood is cut into strips, known as kumi pieces. These strips are then meticulously sanded, their edges trimmed, and, if necessary, tiny grooves and notches are carved. Afterward, the pieces are assembled, like a mosaic, into small elements. The absence of glue demands incredible precision from the craftsmen, requiring them to adhere to measurements with accuracy down to the hundredths of a millimeter; otherwise, the pattern would not hold together. The thin strips can be broken easily by hand, but thanks to careful calculations and mechanical tension, they form remarkably strong panels. There are two primary types of elements in kumiko: hishi (“diamond”) and koshi (“lattice”). These form the basis for the traditional patterns found in Japanese decorative screens:
- Asanoha (“hemp leaf”) – A traditional Japanese pattern used not only in kumiko but also in textiles and graphic design. The hexagonal shape indeed resembles a hemp leaf.
- Goma (“sesame”) – The intersection of several strips of wood resembles small sesame flowers.
- Sakura – The cherry blossom, a symbol of Japan, is reflected in one of the most popular kumiko patterns.
- Sekko – A pattern combining octagonal and square shapes, originally from Chinese brocade fabric, it later appeared on kimonos and in interior design.
These are just a few examples of the many patterns. Master craftsmen are proficient in 200-250 different patterns and continuously develop their own variations. These elements are then assembled into large panels for shoji partitions or decorative panels. Of course, it’s not just about combining similar elements in a mosaic. By mixing different patterns and toning the wood, Japanese kumiko can be crafted into true works of art.
Japanese Kumiko in Modern Times
All kumiko panels are made entirely by hand: creating them requires high skill, time, and effort. Therefore, kumiko cannot be purchased from a store; to obtain it, one must contact one of the few master workshops in Japan, with only several dozen of these establishments nationwide. Every piece is the result of interaction between the customer and the craftsman: the woodworker carefully selects possible pattern combinations based on specific dimensions or requests.
Even in Japan, fewer and fewer homes or apartments feature traditional Japanese rooms with tatami mats, so shoji partitions and ranma gradually disappear from daily life. However, kumiko panels are becoming increasingly popular for decorating hotel lobbies and restaurants, adding a distinct “Japanese” aesthetic to these spaces. The wooden lattices pair beautifully with washi paper, which lets light through, making such panels especially striking when illuminated.
The craftsmanship of kumiko is highly valued, and only a few can afford to order sliding partitions or large decorative panels. Nevertheless, kumiko workshops are offering new solutions for even small urban apartments. For example, traditional Japanese andon lanterns made from kumiko and washi paper, TV stands, and small chests of drawers with kumiko doors. The refined patterns of kumiko add elegance to any interior, and the natural wood and centuries-old craftsmanship enhance the owner’s taste.
Ideologist+ collaborates with the Japanese workshop Tanihata, whose kumiko panels can be seen in prestigious hotels and high-end restaurants such as Four Seasons, Gajoen, Ritz-Carlton, and Shangri-La in Tokyo and other cities across Japan.
