shira saya

[Lindus]

I started making shira saya back in the 80,s,not so difficult with a little care,during that time I suppose I made around thirty a year for collectors in the UK who wanted to get rid of Gunto mounts {how times have changed} The wood used from a specialist merchant was described as "Satin Walnut",virtually identical to Ho which in those days was unobtainable.

 

The process is fairly simple and would suggest for those with a sword in decent but not new polish to have a go,the process is fairly well documented on the net now. Take your time, if you are not satisfied with either the saya or Tsuka finish they can easily be turned into civil saya & Tsuka which is also good fun.

 

while on the subject, I was offered a splendid sword by a Dealer {Chris Shewen,remember him....good old days} in a black lacquered shira saya with a gold lacquer mei,never could afford to buy from a dealer but was always curious as to the rarity of resting mounts that were lacquered.

 

I no longer make make anything{See old age and wife} but have recently been asked about wood for both saya,tsuka & shira saya,seems that importing wood from Japan has become difficult, found a specialist wood merchant in Falmouth,Cornwall while looking for some Ash. They have a large quantity of good dry wood including Magnolia, if desperate mail me for address and Number,would be happy to go and check out the wood prior to you buying....no charge.

PS...simple Habaki are a piece of cake as well......

Roy