A Touch of Handcraft in Machined Metal
A Quiet Character Etched by Hand into Precision Metal
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In our previous content, we introduced “uchime,” a technique of creating patterns by hammering metal.
This time, we would like to introduce another, slightly different handcrafting technique: “ittōbori.”
CTSH LIGHT. fixtures are primarily crafted using precision machining to create their machined metal forms.
Uniformly beautiful contours and perfectly finished dimensions are qualities that can only be achieved through machine processing.
At the same time, we sometimes deliberately add a process performed by hand.
That is ittōbori.
Lines etched by hand, one by one, into precision-finished metal.
Their subtle variations give the lighting a quiet depth and a one-of-a-kind character.
What Is Ittōbori?
Ittōbori is a technique in which a material is carved using a single blade.
It has long been used in woodworking, sculpture, and craftwork, and is one of the traditional techniques seen in Buddhist statues and decorative objects.
Rather than shaping the piece uniformly through multiple steps, the form is created stroke by stroke.As a result, the way the blade enters the material, the pressure applied, and the angle of carving create subtle differences in the finish.
Even lines that appear identical have their own unique character upon closer inspection.
These small differences are the distinctive charm of handcrafting.
One-of-a-Kind Character in Every Piece
The appeal of ittōbori lies in the fact that no two finished pieces are exactly alike.
Machine processing excels at reproducing the same shape with high precision.
Ittōbori, on the other hand, allows the subtle variations created by hand to become the piece’s character.
The depth of the lines.
The angle of the blade.
The rhythm of the carving.
The slightest variations created by the movement of the hand.
These elements come together, giving each product its own individuality.
Even when the patterns are the same, no two pieces are exactly alike.
This is precisely why, despite being industrial products, they each possess the unique appeal of a one-of-a-kind piece.
Adding the Variations of Handcraft to the Precision of Machined Metal
At the foundation of CTSH LIGHT.’s craftsmanship lies precision machining to shape the metal.
Clean contours.
Uniform thickness.
Uncomplicated forms.
A refined presence that blends quietly into any space.
It is because of this precise foundation that the character of handcrafting stands out even more beautifully.
If everything is done by hand, the rustic quality can become too pronounced.
If everything is machine-processed, the result can feel somewhat cold.
There is beauty in the balance between the two.
By adding the subtle variations of ittōbori to the clean texture created through machining, the character of the metal gains depth.
Subtle Shadows Revealed When Lit
The character of ittōbori becomes even more compelling when the light is turned on.
As light strikes the carved lines and surfaces, subtle shadows are created.
These shadows do not demand attention, but they reveal their own character upon closer inspection.
By day, they appear as traces of handcrafting etched into the metal surface.
By night, they emerge as subtle shadows illuminated by the light.
The impression changes gradually depending on the time of day and the angle from which it is viewed.
This is another distinctive appeal of ittōbori.
A light fixture is not merely a tool that emits light.
The details etched into its surface catch the light, adding a soft sense of depth to the space.
Machine Precision and the Character of Handcrafting
What CTSH LIGHT. values is the balance between precision and handcrafting.
Machine processing creates the fixture’s beautiful form.
Ittōbori is then added by hand.
This brings a subtle warmth to the metal.
Refined, yet not too cold.
Handcrafted, yet not too rustic.
This exquisite balance is the distinctive character of CTSH LIGHT.
A clean form created through machining.
The unique traces of handcrafting created by ittōbori.
Subtle shadows revealed when lit.
Together, they complete the light fixture.
A Quiet Individuality in the Details
Ittōbori is not a large or conspicuous decoration.
Yet its character reveals itself when viewed up close, when light strikes it, or in unexpected moments.
It is not a bold statement that dramatically transforms the entire space, but a quiet individuality that is gradually noticed in everyday life.
Handcrafting is etched into the machined metal, one stroke at a time.
Within the uniform form created by machines, the variations of the human hand remain.
It is these small differences that grow into a deeper sense of affection the longer the piece is used.
We invite you to look closely not only at the form of the light fixture but also at the character etched into its details.
Key Points!
What Is Ittōbori?:
A handcrafting technique in which a material is carved using a single blade. The movement of the blade and the pressure applied are reflected in the character of the finish.
Its Appeal:
Even when the patterns are the same, no two pieces are exactly alike. Each line possesses the unique variations of handcrafting.
The Appeal of CTSH LIGHT.:
The precision of machined forms and the handcrafting of ittōbori come together to give the metal a quiet depth and a one-of-a-kind character.
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