noun
make; workmanship; preparation
Refers to the way something is made, its construction, or the quality of its craftsmanship. Also used for preparations, especially in the context of dressing up or getting ready. Often appears in phrases like 拵えがいい (well-made) or 拵えをする (to get ready).
この家具は拵えがしっかりしている。
This furniture is solidly made.
彼女はパーティーのために拵えをした。
She got herself ready for the party.
作り is a more general and common word for 'make' or 'construction', while 拵え often implies careful craftsmanship or personal preparation.
支度 is the standard word for 'preparations' or 'getting ready', whereas 拵え can carry a slightly old-fashioned or literary nuance when used in this sense.
The noun form of the verb こしらえる (to make, to prepare). The kanji 拵 is a kokuji (Japanese-made kanji) combining 扌 (hand) and 存, suggesting the idea of creating or preparing something with one's hands.