About

Rodrigo Matsuda is a Brazilian craftsman of Okinawan descent with over 20 years of experience shaping wooden surfboards. His knowledge was built through hands-on work in Japan, Brazil, Australia, and Peru.

Deeply connected to Japanese woodworking culture and tradition, Rodrigo studied traditional woodworking in Japan and later taught in Kyoto. He carries an organic sensibility into his work — each surfboard is a dialogue between cultures, materials, and the ocean, crafted not only for performance, but to flow.

Lasca Woodworks

Lasca Woodworks is a small, independent brand focused on creating wooden surfboards and objects designed for functionality, performance, durability, and respect for nature.

Using carefully selected materials, Japanese woodworking techniques, and construction methods refined over many years, every board is shaped with dedication, precision, and respect for the surfer.
From surfer to surfer — always aiming to maximize joy in the water.

Each project considers the right type of wood, construction method, and orientation of the grain, which directly affects durability, flexibility, and performance. Even the finishing tools used leave a visible mark on the final result.

Materials

Paulownia (Kiri)
A lightweight, flexible, and soft wood. Ideal for small, high-performance surfboards.

Japanese Cedar (Sugi) Kuma-hagi
Kuma-hagi refers to damage caused when wild bears strip tree bark — an increasing issue in the Keihoku region of Kyoto. These trees often lose their commercial value and are reduced to wood chips or fuel.
However, the trees chosen by bears are usually strong. As they regenerate, they develop unique grain patterns — natural marks that only nature can create.
The Bears Wood Project was born from the desire to transform this former loss into value, giving new life to bear-marked wood in collaboration with local foresters and artisans.This wood carries a strong story and concept, and is used in surfboards that seek a balanced weight, speed, and durability. It is especially well suited for midlengths and longboards.

Okinawa

Being based in Okinawa — an island where the ocean is central to life and identity — brings a deeper connection and constant inspiration to our work. The sea is not only our playground, but our guide.

A man standing behind a large, dark-colored wooden bowl, smiling, in a workshop with woodworking pieces and panels around him.

Selected Exhibitions & Features