What is Kintsugi?
Kintsugi, also known as "golden joinery," is a traditional Japanese art form in which broken pottery is mended using a lacquer mixed with gold, silver, or platinum. The idea behind kintsugi is that the broken pieces are not hidden or discarded, but rather celebrated and incorporated into the piece, making it more beautiful and unique. It is said to symbolize the beauty of imperfection and the impermanence of life. The art form has been used to mend everything from ceramics and pottery to metal and glass. It's also a metaphor for accepting and embracing the scars and imperfections of life.
Are the kits you use food safe?
The lacquer and putty used in these kits are non toxic and I continue to use my cups and plates for food and drinks. I also use them for teas and hot water, however I would not recommend putting them in the oven, the dishwasher or the microwave.
The super glue that is used at the very beginning to bond the pieces together however is not food safe, therefore I am careful to use this very minimally in a way that the glue will be completely covered by the putty and the lacquer.
Do you sell the kits on their own?
Currently because I do not have easy access to this lacquer, the kits and lacquer are only available to workshop attendees and alumni.
Do you do private workshops?
Yes! Please feel free to enquire about those in my contact form.
How many items can you mend with this kit?
This Kintsugi Kit will have enough putty to mend 5 small ceramic pieces, and the lacquer will be enough to mend at least 30-40 small ceramic pieces.
What method of Kintsugi do you teach?
A modern form of Kintsugi using Cashew lacquer instead of sumac. You can learn more about the different styles here