Traditional Kintsugi: Japanese Gold Joinery (4-Week)

Kintsugi (金継ぎ, gold joinery) is an ancient Japanese craft practice, used for hundreds of years to repair damaged ceramics. With this technique, fractures and breaks are mended with Urushi lacquer (a natural tree resin) and gold powder, creating gold linework that evidences the repair. The philosophy that accompanies this cultural craftway speaks to a commitment to reuse, deep care for the objects in our lives and a holistic embrace of imperfection.

This intensive offers students the chance to dive into the art of Kintsugi: the history, techniques and artistry in this time-honored practice. The skills taught in this 4-week course will expand beyond what is covered in Emi’s 3-hour Intro to Kintsugi, offering students a deeper understanding of process, and greater refinement of skills.

A broken ceramic piece is provided. You are also welcome to bring your own broken ceramics - the original piece should be small and broken into no more than four fragments.

Note: Urushi lacquer is the main material in all traditional Kintsugi repair steps; adhesive is mixed with wheat flour, filler is mixed with stone powder and coatings are layered to achieve a smooth surface. As the traditional method uses all-natural materials, repaired ceramics are food-safe, waterproof, and heatproof once completely cured. The Urushi lacquer used in this workshop is derived from a tree in the cashew family, which includes poison ivy and mango. Disposable gloves must be worn while handling the raw lacquer to avoid allergic reaction. If you are concerned about a severe allergic reaction due to working with this material, please consider enrolling in one of Emi’s Intro to Kintsugi classes, which will provide alternate lacquer options. No previous experience necessary.