Kintsugi: DIY Workshop

Kintsugi is the Japanese traditional technique to repair broken ceramics. Participants will use a Kintsugi-influenced method and steps to repair their own broken items during the session and take them home after the class.

We will be using epoxy resin, epoxy paste, Urushi resin, and brass powder for the repairs. All the materials and tools will be provided.

Please note that the repaired items are intended for decor only and should not be used for food or drink.

Important: Please bring a few broken ceramic/wooden pieces to repair and containers to bring them home safely. Some Japanese antique ceramics are available for purchase at the class for repair.

Please be aware that we will use Urushi lacquer, essential to Kintsugi, can cause severe skin irritation (in this session,low-sensitivity Urushi lacquer will be provided). Always wear provided gloves and apply Vaseline to exposed skin. Avoid contact with non-intended surfaces. Do not take this class if you have previously been exposed to poison ivy.

About the Instructor

Yuka Morino, an artist who runs Three Little Spruce, grew up in Kyoto, Japan.
Her grandmother played a big role in shaping her appreciation for ceramics by collecting pieces from various artists. When one of her grandmother's prized collections broke, Yuka discovered the art of Kintsugi and started mending broken pottery while studying architectural design at Kyoto University of the Arts.
Yuka now lives on Quadra Island, B.C., and offers repair services for ceramics.
In her jewelry designs, she applies ancient Japanese craftsmanship, using a combination of 金彩 (Kindami, a gold application technique) and 金継ぎ (Kintsugi, mending broken ceramics).

If you are interested in learning more about Kintsugi, register for Yuka Morino's sessional Master class here.

Host or Publisher Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre