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I dropped $120 on a Japanese hole punch jig and I'm still not sure it was worth it

It's a beautiful tool from a shop in Kyoto, and it makes perfect sewing holes every single time. But I've done maybe 30 books with it, and I could have just used my old ruler and awl. Some folks say the time saved is huge, others say it's a luxury for people who bind a lot. Has anyone else bought a specialized tool that split the room like this?
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3 Comments
green.noah
You mentioned it's from a shop in Kyoto. That got me thinking about the story behind the tool itself. Sometimes the value isn't just in the time saved, but in feeling connected to that specific place and craft every time you pick it up. It turns the work into a small ritual, which can be worth the price for some projects.
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gracethomas
Honestly if it works every time and you like using it, that's the win. Alice_allen5 has a point about joy, but for me it comes down to whether you'll grab it over the ruler next time.
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alice_allen5
Does it at least spark joy? Some tools are just for the love of the craft.
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