Tsugite
Extend beams seamlessly with interlocking geometry engineered for resilience.
- Kanawa Tsugi (金輪継ぎ)
- Koshikake Ari Tsugi (腰掛蟻継ぎ)
- Kone Tsugi (腰根継ぎ)
- Okkake Daisen Tsugi (送掛大栓継ぎ)
- Ne Tsugi (根継ぎ)
- Kiritsuke Tsugi (切り付け継ぎ)
- Daiwa Tsugi (台輪継ぎ)
Joint categories
Navigate the tsugite universe by function and difficulty.
Filter your exploration by how each joint carries load, responds to seasonal movement, and supports traditional architecture. Each category contains detailed breakdowns, assembly tips, and tool recommendations.
Shiguchi
Precision fits for columns and beams that channel force without modern fasteners.
- Kama Tsugi (鎌継ぎ)
- Watari Ago (渡り顎)
- Mechigai Tsugi (目違い継ぎ)
- Hozo Tsugi (ほぞ継ぎ)
- Shachi Sen (差し栓)
- Nuki (貫)
- Tsuki Uchi Wa (突き打ち輪)
Kumi Tsugi
Complex intersections crafted for cabinetry, shrines, and modular architecture.
- Ari Otoshi (蟻落とし)
- Kama Hozo (鎌ほぞ)
- San Mai Hozo (三枚ほぞ)
- Mitsu Kude (三組手)
- Ari Gumi (蟻組み)
- Kakushi Ari (隠し蟻)
Itahagi
Simple edge-to-edge joints for joining boards, forming the foundation of panel construction.
- Ita Tsugi (板継ぎ)
Kumiko
Geometric screens balancing light, privacy, and meticulous joinery pattern work.
- Asa-no-ha Kumiko (麻の葉組子)
- Kumiko Grid (組子格子)
- Sakura (桜)
- Goma (胡麻)
- Benten Kikko (弁天亀甲)
- Shippo (七宝)
Difficulty progression
Choose your path from novice to temple restoration specialist.
Each joint is tagged with skill level, tool requirements, and structural application so you can assemble a curriculum tailored to your goals.
Beginner · Careful foundations
Start with itahagi edge joints and simple mortise-tenon pairs to train accuracy.
Intermediate · Structural harmony
Blend shiguchi frame joints with Kumiko panels to understand grain behavior and seasonal movement.
Advanced · Temple craftsmanship
Master tsugite scarf joints and hidden locking mechanisms engineered for longevity.
Mastery · Cultural stewardship
Lead collaborative builds, document heritage sites, and mentor the next generation of artisans.