This is the most fascinating and unique production method I've seen in a while. Japanese woodware company Bunaco makes tableware, lamps and furniture from thin strips of birch veneer. What's amazing is how they wrangle that veneer into shape. First they wrap the strip tightly, creating a large disc, kind of like how double-stick tape is sold. What happens next is best explained visually:
There are downsides to using this method for tableware; bowls and dishes can't come into contact with hot water or detergent, and cannot be microwaved or placed in a dishwasher. But for lamps and furniture, it's a great way to get a lot out of relatively little material.
