Curious about Japanese woodworking but not sure where to start?
Maybe you’ve picked up a beautiful Japanese chisel or a sleek pull saw, but you're not quite sure how to use them. Perhaps you’ve invested in a handplane, only to struggle with setup or sharpening—no smooth shavings, no clean cuts. You’re not alone.
This course is designed to help you confidently master your Japanese tools. From sharpening techniques to proper usage, you’ll learn step by step how to get the most out of each tool. Whether you're working on a dream project or simply looking to slow down and embrace a more meditative approach to woodworking, this course will guide you there—with clarity, skill, and respect for tradition.
Together, we’ll ease into the basics, starting with the philosophy behind woodworking in Japan and the simple beauty of its core techniques. Along the way, we’ll explore:
How to use a Japanese pull saw with intention and care
Setting up, sharpening, and using a Japanese hand plane—plus how to read the shavings and understand what they’re telling you
Sharpening and preparing a Japanese chisel for clean, precise cuts
And finally, bringing all of it together to cut the mortise and tenon—the foundational joint of Japanese joinery
What you’ll learn
-
![]()
✓
Learn to confidently tune and sharpen kanna and chisels.
-
![]()
✓
Intro to joinery: fit without glue, nails, or screws.
-
![]()
✓
Sharpening basics using traditional waterstones
-
![]()
✓
How to use Japanese pull saws efficiently and with care
-
![]()
✓
The essential tools for beginners
I struggled with Japanese tools at first.
I created this Japanese woodworking course because, when I first started, I was overwhelmed by the tools, confused by the techniques, spent time and resources on the wrong tools and methods. This is why I created this step-by-step path to understanding the tools, the philosophy, and the joy of Japanese woodworking, so others can start their journey with clarity and confidence.
TAKE A LOOK AT WHAT’S INSIDE
Intro & Philosophy: 1 Lesson 6:12
Nokogiri: Japanese Hand Saw 1 Lesson 19:54
Nomi: Japanese Chisel 2 Lessons 45:11
Lesson 1: Initial Setup
Lesson 2: Sharpening
Kanna: Japanese Hand Plane 6 Lessons 1:30:32
Lesson 1: Overview
Lesson 2: Gather Your Supplies
Lesson 3: Fitting the Blade
Lesson 4: Sharpening
Lesson 5: Tuning Kanna
Lesson 6: Taking Shavings
Joinery: Through Mortise & Tenon: 4 Lessons 1:29:32
Lesson 1: Intro & Layout
Lesson 2: Chopping the Mortise
Lesson 3: Saw the Tenon
Bonus Lesson: Variations
Requirements:
This course requires participants to have a piece of wood that is milled square for the joinery section. The piece I will be using is 1 1/2" x 2" x 36." However, these dimensions can be modified according to your needs.
A flat surface or a workbench is essential for the course, though instruction on building a workbench is not provided. However, a PDF with work surface options is included. Additionally, a workbench plan is available for purchase on my website here.
This is a space to slow down, work with your hands, and learn at your own pace. Let’s get started!
You’ll receive a complete list of tools and materials in each section needed for the course, including accessible alternatives for any specialized items.
For where to buy tools, refer to buyer's guide available for purchase here
TESTIMONIALS
WHAT OTHERS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT THIS COURSE
“Finding this online course on your website has been such a relief - actually I stumbled on your website/YouTube video(s) in my research of hybrid atedai design. I’ve spent so much time, energy and money on trying to learn about the myriad ways to apply the craft that I was neglecting the whole point of getting into the craft - making things and enjoying the process. Your introductory course has helped bridge that gap for me and I really appreciate you sharing your knowledge in such a well structured and approachable way. The content and instruction is excellent and resonates with me deeply.”
- Samuel L, California
"I’ve only recently started my journey with Japanese woodworking and although there is a lot of content out there, nothing comes close to the quality of your videos and this course. I've really been enjoying it and can already see massive improvements in my work just from understanding how to setup my tools properly."
- Thomas C, Ireland
Launch Sale
Learn the foundations to setting up and using the three basic Japanese tools: saw, chisel, and Hand plane. (nokogiri, nomi, and kanna) as well as a foundation to joinery: the mortise and tenon.
A QUIETER FORM OF WORK
This way of working requires a quiet mind, allowing your hands to do all the thinking.
When everything else in our lives is chaotic, it’s important to have something to enrich your soul and still your busy thoughts. This craft has been that for me. Nothing else matters other than the tools and wood I have to cut in front of me. I hope you can experience this too.
Meet your instructor
Nolan Hatfield
I’ve been using Japanese tools as a professional woodworker for the past 12 years in both traditional Japanese projects and modern western designs. I started my training in a traditional apprenticeship for 5 years in a furniture studio, and moved on to doing private commissions for designers in NYC. I want to share my passion for these wonderful tools and woodworking with anyone who wants to learn.
*Disclaimer:
Please note that this course involves the use of sharp tools common in traditional Japanese woodworking. Participants are advised to exercise caution and prioritize safety at all times while working with these tools. By participating in this course, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own safety and agree to take all necessary precautions when handling sharp tools. The course provider is not liable for any accidents or injuries that may occur during the course. Always thoughtfully work within your comfort level.
Return Policy:
No refunds on digital products
