On Monday evening, I was able to take photos at a local sword cutting seminar. The seminar provided instruction in, and opportunities for, cutting water-soaked tatami mats with “live” blades; and for cutting paper. Both tatami and paper cutting require skill with the sword. The incorrect angle of cutting, or a failure to cut through the tatami results in a butchered and ragged tatami which bears mute but very evident testimony to your ineptitude. Similarly, it is easy to shred or tear suspended newspaper with a sword by simple force. However, to evenly slice through the paper requires a light touch and accuracy. From the seminar:
Stands with tatami ready for cutting
Attempting paper cutting
