Ikenobo is the oldest school of ikebana flower arranging in Japan, tracing its origins to the 15th century. The shears developed for this tradition reflect that heritage: precision tools designed for clean cuts that do not crush or bruise stems, sized for close, controlled work in the arrangement rather than garden pruning. Nagaike-san, a third-generation blacksmith born in 1939 who represents one of the last practitioners of his craft in a region that once had many, makes these by hand from high-carbon steel at approximately C0.85 and HRC60.
At 165mm total length with 43mm blades, the Ikenobo shear is the most compact option in the Nagaike line - suited for fine detail work in flower arrangement, small bonsai, herb trimming, and kitchen tasks where precision matters more than reach. The weight is 5.9 oz. The construction is purely mechanical - two forged blades pivoting at a fixed joint - which gives the user direct tactile feedback on every cut. Packaged in a vinyl pouch.
Care Instructions: High-carbon steel. Wipe and dry after each use. Apply camellia or mineral oil before storage. Do not leave wet or allow soil or sap to dry on the blades.
At 165mm total length with 43mm blades, the Ikenobo shear is the most compact option in the Nagaike line - suited for fine detail work in flower arrangement, small bonsai, herb trimming, and kitchen tasks where precision matters more than reach. The weight is 5.9 oz. The construction is purely mechanical - two forged blades pivoting at a fixed joint - which gives the user direct tactile feedback on every cut. Packaged in a vinyl pouch.
Care Instructions: High-carbon steel. Wipe and dry after each use. Apply camellia or mineral oil before storage. Do not leave wet or allow soil or sap to dry on the blades.
- Maker: Nagaike-san (Third Generation)
- Item: K-50
- Steel: High-Carbon Steel (C0.85)
- HRC: Approx. 60
- Weight: 5.9 oz (168 g)
- Blade Length: 43mm
- Total Length: 165mm
- Packaging: Vinyl Pouch
