This 8-layer Suminagashi softer cheek steel is usually forged onto both sides of a hard core layer (Blue or White Paper Steel ).

Each of these eight layers of steel consists in turn of a "Gokunan-Koh" layer (traditional soft steel) that is welded to a thin, alloyed carbon steel layer, which prevents the steel from decarbonising too quickly. The other function of the soft cushion or cheek steel is to allow for the makers inscription or 'chop.