Hashi-Making: Learn to make your own chopsticks

Students will learn to use a traditional Japanese handplane (鉋, kanna) to shape a pair of chopsticks from a square wood blank. No prior woodworking experience is needed. By the end of class, every student goes home with a finished, usable pair of hashi they made themselves. The class is designed to be accessible to all ages (11+ unaccompanied; younger with a parent) and serves as a welcoming introduction to Japanese hand-tool craft. What you’ll learn: The anatomy and design of the kanna — how it differs from Western planes and why it pulls instead of pushes Proper grip, body position, and safe blade handling How to read wood grain and why it matters for a clean cut How to use a jig to hold the blank and guide consistent planing passes How to produce a smooth, finished surface using a hand tool What to expect: You will make real shavings and real chopsticks — this is hands-on from the start Mistakes are part of the process; the second blank is for applying what you learned The instructor circulates continuously to give individual guidance Students who finish early can plane a chopstick rest The class is quiet, focused, and meditative — a welcome contrast to a busy day All tools are provided. Students use a shared tool library — no purchases required.