Kintsugi is the ancient Japanese tradition of pottery repair. Broken pieces are re-assembled with a lacquer-based adhesive and cracks are covered in a metal powder which is then hardened and polished. In this way, the damaged object’s history is highlighted rather than hidden. Wabi sabi, embodied.
Traditionally, kintsugi is practiced using urushi lacquer. This natural material is refined from the sap of lacquer trees found in Japan and China and has been used by craftspeople for several thousands of years. Once cured, the urushi becomes glossy, durable, and food-safe. For ages, beautiful lacquerware has been used for fine dining ware.
Lacquer-based kintsugi is a time-intensive and hazardous process. After the initial repair step, pieces must sit in the muro - a warm and humid box - for over a week to fully cure. There are numerous subsequent steps, many of which require overnight cures. Urushi contains the same compounds as poison ivy, so allergic reactions are nearly unavoidable unless you are lucky enough to be immune.
A more approachable form of kintsugi uses quick-setting epoxy for repairs and liquid-metal leaf as a finish. Using these modern materials, pieces can be finished in a day.
I currently teach an introduction to kintsugi class (using epoxy) monthly at the Artisans Asylum in Allston. This is a bring your own piece class. At the end of the 2.5 hour session, you should have a newly repaired piece to bring back home. Each session has six seats and usually sells out in advance. Get your tickets.
I am preparing a traditional lacquer-based kintsugi workshop for Spring 2024. Stay tuned.
Graduates from my classes are welcome to join monthly meetings of the Boston kintsugi club. At this open studio session, you can practice kintsugi, refine your techniques, and learn from one another. You will also have access to use my muro and collection of kintsugi materials and tools.
I am available to repair your pieces using the traditional laquer-based process. For a quote, send me a note with some photos of your piece.
In 2021, I dropped and broke an antique Apollo landing plate which I had bought to give a friend of mine. Rather than throw it away, I wanted to repair the plate and so learned kintsugi using epoxy via the internet. After that first repair, I became curious about lacquer-based repairs and dove in after obtaining some urushi from Japan, where I have traveled extensively. In 2023, I started teaching kintsugi classes. I continue to refine my practice. During my latest trip to Japan, I took a workshop in Nara with kintsugi master David Pike.