Modern Table, 1300 Year Old Woodworking Technique

Johnny introduces a special woodworking project where he combines an ancient Japanese technique with rare wood sourced from 2,000 miles away to create a large dining table. He plans to inlay hundreds of pieces of 'kamiko', decorative patterns made from individually shaped wood strips. The wood, Myrtle slabs with unique figure and color, was purchased from Oregon and is considered uncommon and sought after. Johnny mentions the table will be sold with all proceeds going to charity, specifically the Cats Moses Woodworkers with Disabilities Fund, which supports individuals with physical and mental disabilities in woodworking. He also humorously hints at a surprise for his wife, Katie, who may not be aware that the table will not stay in their home.

The script describes the process of flattening the Myrtle slabs using a CNC machine and dealing with the challenges of their bowed shape. Johnny discusses the rarity and appeal of the wood, including its Burl inclusions, and the need to clean up and fill imperfections with epoxy. He also talks about cutting down the slabs to reduce the bow and prepare them for assembly. The process of joining the slabs and filling voids with epoxy and kamiko panels is outlined, emphasizing the meticulous and time-consuming nature of the kamiko technique.

Johnny reaches out to Johnny Truchis of JT Woodworks, a skilled maker and kamiko expert, for advice on tackling the large-scale kamiko inlay. Truchis sells specialized tools for making kamiko, which Johnny purchases to assist in his project. The video also covers Johnny's regret over selling his drum sander and the importance of keeping tools, even if they seem unnecessary at the moment. The process of making the kamiko grid and inlaying the strips is detailed, showcasing the complexity and precision required.

The script highlights the time-consuming nature of the kamiko inlay process, with Johnny spending a full day and a half just to create two panels. He builds a quick jig to expedite the process and discusses the need for a sharp chisel when working with hard maple, which is being used for the inlay to prevent epoxy staining. Johnny also shares his experience with sharpening chisels using the Work Sharp system and the process of cutting and fitting the infill strips to complete the asanoha pattern.

Johnny shifts focus to building a chair to match the table, opting to construct it from 1-inch square tube steel. He discusses the process of cutting and welding the chair, using a Lincoln Electric 215 multiprocess welder to improve his welding skills. The integration of technology in woodworking is emphasized with the use of a 3D scanner to accurately fit the kamiko panels into the table's voids. Johnny also mentions his plans to create wooden chairs for the final set, which will be lighter than the prototype steel chair.

In this reflective paragraph, Johnny likens his use of various tools and techniques in the project to the diverse group of artists who came together for 'We Are The World.' He emphasizes the value of learning and using a wide range of skills, from traditional woodworking to modern technology like 3D scanning and plasma cutting. The paragraph concludes with Johnny's hope that the table will be cherished by its buyer and not end up in a landfill, highlighting the care and craftsmanship that went into its creation.

Johnny concludes the script by revealing the finished table to his wife, Katie, and explaining the charitable aspect of the project. He surprises her with the news that the table will be sold, and the proceeds will be donated to the Cats Moses Woodworkers with Disabilities Fund in her name. The emotional impact of the project is evident as Katie reacts to the gift and its purpose. Johnny also humorously addresses the comments section of his videos and his stance on Bruce Springsteen.