Saya repair

[Harry]

Greetings,

I have a waki that fits loose in the scabbard - probably from the blade being carelessly drawn or replaced. I would like to fix it properly but am cautious about making repairs. I don’t want to do anything that would reduce it’s appeal. Seems pretty simple though - a few small shavings of wood adhered to the interior mouth of the saya would do the trick. I am curious what other collectors would do with it? Advise welcome!

 

Harry W.

[ROKUJURO]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwRL-gETDmM

https://ejmas.com/tin/2005tin/tinart_forbes_0105.html

[b.hennick]

If you know someone who smokes cigars ask for the wood shavings that line the container. They are long and thin and work well. They are also good for tightening a tsuka.

[vajo]

Barry thanks for the info.

[PNSSHOGUN]

You can buy rolls of self adhering wood trim that do the job quite well, however as it does use glue I would not use it on anything too valuable.

[Harry]

Thanks all. Very helpful. 

[Mark C]

I've done simular but used rice glue.

[16k]

Interesting video, but I have to say the idea of using a file inside the saya makes me uneasy. If any wood shavings are left inside, it’s a sure way to scratch a blade.

[ROKUJURO]

Jean-Pierre,

you don't use a file vertically in this case but horizontally! Any dust can fall out, be vacuum-cleaned or brushed out. A file is always better than sandpaper..... 

[16k]

Got it!

[Grey Doffin]

Before inserting the blade and habaki to serve as a clamp for the wood strip, I lay in a thin strip of plastic between the wood and habaki.  If any of the glue squeezes out it won't discolor anything we care about.

Grey

[Harry]

Before inserting the blade and habaki to serve as a clamp for the wood strip, I lay in a thin strip of plastic between the wood and habaki.  If any of the glue squeezes out it won't discolor anything we care about.

Grey

Good idea. Thanks. I fixed mine this afternoon. Followed the procedure in the video. Made my own shavings with a hand lathe. It did require a little filing. Fits like a glove now.

[Greg F]

I have done this on a couple different saya over the years with hinoki that I got from acheap saki cup from ebay. I used wood glue and haven't had any problems since. When you file you make sure you only file outwards and only with the saya pointing koiguchi down. Good luck

 

Greg

[ROKUJURO]

Greg,

files are made to work in 'push-motion'.

[Greg F]

Hi Jean, the small files Ive used I just hold it in reverse and work gently.

 

Greg