re: Square Dance Kumiko

Madburg- dust, indeed, thus my option.
Eric, Splint, it's not "difficult", it's just that if you don't hold the chisel and the wood just right, the part is no good, since all that stuff is an interference fit, and isn't supposed to take any glue.
Yes, this one uses half-laps, and one can gang-cut them on the table saw with the right jig. Not quite the calm, relaxing tool experience, that. I sanded the sticks in my drum sander to match the thickness of my flat-top blade, killing two birds with one stone.
Paul, it'll be cake for you. Given the amount of incredible marquetry you do, you've already the practice you need, if you think about it.