kerfinga

Kerfinga is a woodworking technique used to create curved shapes from rigid materials, typically wood. It involves cutting a series of closely spaced slots into a piece of material, allowing it to be bent along the lines of the cuts. The depth of the kerfs, or slots, is crucial; they penetrate most of the way through the material but do not go all the way, preserving the integrity of the piece on the uncut side.

The process typically begins with marking the desired curve on the material. Then, a saw, such as a bandsaw or a table saw with a jig, is used to cut parallel slots along the marked line. The spacing and depth of these kerfs are determined by the material's thickness and the desired degree of curvature. Once the cuts are made, the material can be gently bent into the desired shape, with the uncut portion acting as a flexible hinge. The bent piece can then be secured in its new form using glue, screws, or other fasteners.

Kerfinga is a versatile technique used in various applications, including the construction of curved furniture, architectural elements like arched doorways, and musical instruments. It allows woodworkers to achieve complex curves without the need for steam bending or laminating, which can be more time-consuming and require specialized equipment. The resulting bent piece retains a degree of its original rigidity, making it suitable for structural applications. The visible kerfs can also contribute to the aesthetic of the final piece.