Tsuka maker in the UK

[Loldogha]

Hello everyone

 

i just wanted to ask if anyone knows any Tsuka and saya makers that are in the UK as I want a custom set of koshirae for a new nihonto that I bought which only has a shirasaya. 
if they are not located in the UK it’s fine, it’s just that I might be difficult to ship a sword out of borders due to our laws and I don’t really want customs searching my blade for safety purposes.

 

[Bugyotsuji]

Hi Bill, I think you need to contact the koshirae lacquerer Mike Hickman-Smith. He should be able to advise you at the very least.

[kissakai]

Mike can make you a shirasaya or one to your taste

He may have Bals details who may help with the tsuka

 

[Bugyotsuji]

Just be aware that to create a new set of Koshiraé (in Japan or anywhere) could be very expensive. I know some people who have, but the cost would have been of secondary importance to them.

 

Another option might be to look for an old Koshiraé that is close enough to allow adjustment/adaptation. There are problems with this route too, but with a bit of serendipity and skill it could be a cheaper and in some ways more satisfactory option.

[Loldogha]

20 hours ago, Bugyotsuji said:

Hi Bill, I think you need to contact the koshirae lacquerer Mike Hickman-Smith. He should be able to advise you at the very least.

Hi, do you happen to have his contacts?

[Bugyotsuji]

Try through the UK Tōken Society.