Katana Sword Craftsmanship Clearly Revealed in a 3D-Printed Case by Studio Shukumi Inc. , Kabuku Inc.
Respecting the ancient by using today’s 3D printing technology! What we have came to today, as a society, is being able to create intricate objects in such a precise manner. We are able to generate ideas that are very futuristic and inspiring and yet be able to create them in the real world. However, we still hold on to our traditional crafts passing them through generations. Japanese company Studio Shukumi Inc. and Kabuku Inc. managed to merge the past into the present by creating the Katana sword and its very elegant case, called the ‘Sumisaya’. The project is a great integration of the katana sword craftsmanship, which has been inherited and passed through generations for 400 years, and the latest in 3D printing to create the case for this elegant piece of art. 
The traditional method of creating the sword itself is a very detailed one; it is a time-consuming process leading to the production of highly aesthetic piece of art. The Katana sword is known for its very elegant and neat swerving line down its center; called the ‘Hamon’. The details of the crafted sword were usually hidden by the cases. As a way of appreciating the old tradition, and showing off its very elegant shape, details, and the artistic genius behind its creation, the ‘sumisaya’ case was printed at a high level of transparency. This was achieved by applying three rounds of meticulous polishing; leaving the case with a clear finish to reveal the intimate beauty of the weapon.
By: Ala’ Abuhasan
