George Sachse

George creates wall art panels, lamps, boxes, and furniture that incorporate an ancient Japanese craft known as Kumiko. Kumiko is a delicate and sophisticated woodworking technique of assembling wooden pieces without the use of nails. Thinly slit wooden pieces are grooved, punched and mortised, and then fitted individually using a plane, saw, chisel and other tools to make fine adjustments. Kumiko panels slot together and remain in place through pressure alone, and that pressure is achieved through meticulously calculating, cutting, and arranging interweaving joints. Each design or pattern has a meaning or is mimicking a shape in nature that is thought to be a good omen. The patterns are designed to look good, but also to distribute light in a calming and beautiful way. All items are designed and handmade by George in his home shop in Kalamazoo.