I Discover Shibusa – FineWoodworking

Synopsis: After years of searching for a craft that could deliver a more meaningful creative experience, Tad Baum encountered furniture maker John Reed Fox, whose process-focused approach initially seemed impractical but later proved transformative. Through lessons that emphasized sharpening, hand skills, design critique, and thoughtful making, Baum learned not only woodworking techniques but a philosophy of craft grounded in humility, restraint, and clarity. Central to this shift was his discovery of the Japanese aesthetic of shibusa.

For decades, I had a desire to learn a craft so I could create something beautiful. I began by trying to envision the type of piece that would satisfy my creative urges were I able to produce it. But I had great difficulty imagining such an object. I looked at work by silversmiths, potters, photographers, woodworkers, and more. Some of the craftsmanship…