Korean and Japanese Sword Making

My son has always loved making weapons from bows and arrows made from sticks, to wooden swords that he carves and decorates himself.

He made this Samurai armor and sword upcycling sketchbook covers and cardboard boxes. Duct tape was also involved. He always is involved in his projects.

In earlier days, he made swords using aluminum foil and duct tape for a Percy Jackson book club with his friends. Now, he needs a run to Home Depot to buy wood without a curve in it, drawing out the designs that his father cuts out for him.

He then refines his swords using planes, knives, files, and carving tools to decorate them. The sword’s scabbard is made from upcycled cardboard wrapping paper tubes. Lots of duct tape is involved again.

It would be my son’s dream to forge a sword from steel. He’s been watching these videos for years. When he turn fourteen, he can go to a blacksmith shop nearby and try his hand at forging. Just two more years to go!

I like these videos that connect my son’s passion for sword-making with his Korean and Japanese culture.

p.s. For books to use this craft, try his ninja book selection. I also have book suggestions specific to China, Korea, and Japan. A fun activity to learn science that relates to Japan is The Science of Japanese Ramune Soda for Kids. I also have a picture book list of Korean Folk Tales. Want to relate this activity to Haiku? Try this at home!

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