— Three Must-Have Mokume Gane Books, Chosen by a Craftsman with 20 Years of Experience —
As a Mokume Gane artisan with over 20 years of experience, I’ve spent thousands of hours selecting materials, controlling heat and pressure, and carving patterns layer by layer. Today, I’d like to share three truly valuable books available on Amazon that offer more than just beautiful images—they’re sources of real knowledge, chosen from a craftsman’s point of view.
① Mokume Gane – A Comprehensive Study by Steve Midgett
Overview:
A truly comprehensive guide covering the history, materials, theory of diffusion bonding, pattern creation, and even temperature/pressure data. (Amazon, Steven Jacob)
Highlights:
- Over 150 high-quality photos of carving and finishing processes
- Useful for beginners, advanced craftsmen, and even non-jewelry metalworkers like blade makers
Professional Insight:
A treasure trove of practical data—especially on temperature control and metal ratios for diffusion bonding.
Highly respected in North America, this book serves as a bridge between Western technique and Japanese tradition.
Caveat:
Out of print and now fetching high prices on the used market (often hundreds of dollars—orchid.ganoksin.com).
Still, it’s worth every penny if you’re serious about the craft.
② Mokume Gane by Ian Ferguson
Overview:
Part of the A&C Black Jewelry Handbook series, this book focuses on the history and modern techniques of Mokume Gane. (Amazon, Google Books)
Highlights:
- Includes diagrams of various pattern types (e.g., swirling, linear, spotted)
- Quite affordable—used copies range from $10 to $30
Professional Insight:
Excellent for building a broad understanding of Mokume Gane.
Ideal for beginners to intermediates who want a reliable and easy-to-digest resource.
Caveat:
Doesn’t dive deeply into technical processes—some professionals may find it too general.
③ Mokume Gane: How to Layer and Pattern Metals, Plus Jewelry Design Tips by Chris Ploof
Overview:
A DVD-included guide showing how to create Mokume Gane billets, develop patterns, and design finished jewelry. (Amazon)
Highlights:
- Step-by-step visual demonstrations make complex techniques easier to grasp
- Reasonably priced (around $25 on Amazon)
Professional Insight:
Perfect for hands-on learners.
Great for refining timing, hammer rhythms, and heating benchmarks in real-time.
The combination of visuals and text makes it a highly effective training tool.
✔ Comparison Table: Choosing the Right Book
| Title (Author) | Ideal For | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Midgett | Intermediate to advanced craftspeople, researchers | Detailed technical data, comprehensive guide | Medium–High ($300+ used) |
| Ferguson | Beginners to intermediate learners | Broad overview, accessible format | Low–Medium ($10–30) |
| Ploof (+DVD) | Practicing artisans | Easy-to-follow process visuals | Low ($25 + shipping) |
🎯 Which One Should You Get First?
- Start with Ferguson to get a bird’s-eye view of the craft
- Move on to Ploof if you’re looking to refine your practical technique
- Invest in Midgett if you’re serious about mastering Mokume Gane as a profession or research field
Personally, I began with Midgett early in my career, then shifted toward Ploof and Ferguson as my skills advanced. Each book helped deepen my understanding in distinct ways.
🔚 Final Thoughts: Knowledge Enriches Craft
Skill and knowledge are the roots of expressive work.
By learning from these texts, you don’t just create beautiful objects—you create pieces that can speak.
Each of these three books has helped shape my journey as a Mokume Gane artist, and I wholeheartedly recommend them as companions on yours.
Kunio Takada
Mokume Gane Artisan – Kyoto Furumonzen Workshop