My sword making experience is one i will never forget. I always had an interest in building with my hands and creating. I thought practicing how to make a sword would be the perfect opportunity to further understand this ancient art as well as deepen my understanding of the Japanese Takumi. Although i was a complete beginner in the subject, i was warmly welcomed by Mr.Kakuta Yoshiki into the Budoshop, carrying only myself and my willingness to learn. His joy for the art of swords was infectious, and i felt myself become more and more curious and excited for the honor of being his student. He was very thorough and taught me the theory and basics before moving on to the workshop.
The workshop was authentic and true to the traditional way of sword making. I was extremely lucky and honored as i was the only student amongst several teachers. I started off with the beginner course, making a Kogatana which too a day. Then i moved on to the Intermediate course, taking three days. I loved being able to learn from the extremely talented, kind and patient teachers as they taught me step by step. I would observe them, then try to replicate their movements and precision. I came to appreciate the extreme detail of each movement, where focus and persistence were the main challenge. They really allowed me to work hands on and independently, where only then I started to truly understand the balance of working with the elements of fire, air, water, earth and metal. I would take a break outside the workshop, where i could discuss with my teachers, or simply sit, rest, and enjoy an ice-cream or a beverage. Everyone looked forward to lunch time, which was either soba or sushi as local restaurants.
The most fun was the fact that i was making my own katana knife, which i could take home and pass down for generations! When i look at my katana knife I see my proudest moments, my mistakes, and all the support and help i got along the way. It was truly a once in a life time experience and i will remember it forever.
Kana Tsuboya Newell |
