1. The old decorative ring must first be removed. This ring is traditionally made of many different types of material including rattan, silver, cherry bark or tortoise shell. Reinforcing binding of older flute is usually made of non-synthetic fiber and prone to rotting. This string is removed and a nakasuké resized and shaped to accept new binding as well as a new ring.

2. New linen-nylon binding is applied. The woven fiber is able to stretch and applied under great tensile strength. This prevents the bamboo from expanding beyond the point where it will crack.

3. While the mortise is far more vulnerable, I always reinforce the tenon as well.

4. Since the decorative ring must sit securely and be glued to the bamboo, a precisely-sized foundation is critical. The notched binding is covered with powdered stone and filed smooth.

5. Both sections of the shakuhachi must be sized to match each other so the rings are perfectly aligned.

6. Silver rings are fabricated to fit the bamboo and carefully positioned on either end of the nakasuké.

7. Finely-split rattan is added to the rings as a finishing touch.

8. The final result.