How to carve patterns Part 15 ~Kikko and Yagasuri~

2022年3月2日how to carve

In this lesson, you’ll learn how to carve two classic Japanese patterns:

• Kikko — a pattern made of regular hexagons, named for its resemblance to a turtle shell (kikkō).

• Yagasuri — a design inspired by the shape of arrow feathers (yaha, also known as yabane).

Pattern Background

Kikko
A traditional motif symbolizing longevity and protection. The hexagonal shape echoes the pattern on a turtle’s shell, often seen on armor and ceremonial garments.

 

Yagasuri
Derived from the stylized form of arrow feathers, this pattern has long been used on kimono, symbolizing determination and purpose, as arrows never return once released.

Tools Required

This pattern can be carved entirely with a single sharp chisel — no additional tools needed.

Preparation

Transfer the Kikko and Yagasuri designs onto a postcard-sized wooden board using carbon paper.
You can download the sketch here: [PDF for Kikko and Yagasuri]

1. How to carve Kikko

Step 1: Outer Hexagon

Begin by making a cut along the blue lines outlining the outer hexagon using your sharp chisel.

Then, carve a slope into the yellow areas so that the slope intersects cleanly with the cuts you just made.

Cross-section overview:

• Cut with the sharp chisel

• Carve a slope meeting the cut

• Outer hexagon completed

 

Step 2: Inner Hexagon

Next, move to the inner hexagon.
Repeat the same process: make a precise cut along the hexagon lines, then carve a slope that intersects the cut.

Cross-section overview:

• Cut with the sharp chisel

• Carve intersecting slopes

• Inner hexagon completed

 

Once finished, you’ll have a beautifully detailed Kikko pattern with clear edges and layered depth.

 

2. How to carve Yagasuri

This pattern is carved using two alternating feather styles — one for the black feathers and one for the white feathers.
The contrast creates a striking, three-dimensional effect.

Black Feather Carving

• Cut along the green line, deepening the cut gradually toward the arrow direction (deeper toward the inside).

• Cut along the red line at a consistent depth.

• Then, carve a slope so that it intersects cleanly with both cuts.

Cross-section:

• Red: uniform depth

• Green: progressively deeper

• Slope intersects both lines

White Feather Carving

• Cut along the green line, deepening the cut gradually toward the outside.

• Cut along the red line at a consistent depth.

• Carve a slope that intersects both cuts, forming the white feather section.

Cross-section:

• Red: uniform depth

• Green: progressively deeper

• Slope intersects both lines

 

 

The areas where black and white feathers meet can be especially tricky to carve cleanly.
Stay focused and take your time to achieve a precise and polished finish.

How to carve patterns

1. From the lattice to the scales
2. Raimon
3. Asanoha and Sayagata
4. Seigaiha and Sippo-Tsunagi 
5. Higaki and Kumikikko
6. Mimasu-Tsunagi and Mimasu-Chirashi
7. Ryusui
8. Bundo-Tsunagi and Tatewaku
9. Yamajimon and Misujidate
10. Kemanmon and Gobosei
11. Chidori and Chidori-Goshi
12. Nejiume (Twisted plum) 
13. Kikubishi and Yaegiku
14. Ichimatsu and Sankuzushi
15. Kikko and Yagasuri   ←Current page displayed
16. Clouds
17. Waves

• [Supplementary lecture] Controlling lines with a single sharp chisel