Recurved Toki Whetu

This is an ataahua pounamu with a kaupapa to match. The number seven/whetu is significant to the wearer for many reasons.

There are seven notches in the edge, 3 on one side and 4 on the other. This was commissioned just after the 7 week of level 4 lock down during the covid 19 measures in New Zealand. The 7 notches are to represent the seven weeks. They have other meanings for the wearer that link with her whanau and the members in there also.

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We spent some time discussing the details of the design, the shape of the toki, the pounamu we would use and the positioning of the notches.

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The first stage was the cutting out the blank toki shape, then I used the flat lap to create the curve on the back and the cutting edge. The wheel was used to create the recurve on the front.

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Then sandpaper to smooth the edges and remove the grinding tool marks. I used the hand piece for the notches and the top part that the lashing goes on. Sanding sticks were helpful getting a smooth finish inside the notches. Then the felt burrs for polishing and finally the lashing goes on.

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