top of page
Blog
Search


Urushi Allergy: Prevention, Symptoms, and Treatment for Kintsugi & Lacquer Craft
In our latest guide, we explain how urushi allergy works, why reactions happen even when the surface feels dry, and the most effective safety precautions to take before and after your kintsugi practice. You’ll learn how to set up a safe workspace, how to protect your skin, how to clean tools correctly, and what to know about “hypoallergenic urushi” products.
mikster
Dec 12, 20257 min read


Highlights from 2025 Japan Urushi Forestry & Kintsugi Travel Workshop: Roots, Craft & Real Apprenticeship
Beyond Tokyo & Kyoto. More than just a urushi & kintsugi workshop. In October 2025, five participants traveled to the mountainous town of Daigo in Ibaraki Prefecture to experience the living world of urushi lacquer. With crisp autumn air, gentle morning mist, and the earliest hints of fall foliage brushing the mountains, this year’s Japan Urushi Forestry & Kintsugi Travel Workshop felt as intimate, inspiring and deeply personal as in 2024. A Small Cohort, A Deeper Journey
mikster
Nov 23, 20256 min read


The Rich Legacy of Urushi Japanese Lacquer
Dive into the world of Japanese urushi lacquer and its use in fine art and everyday objects.
mikster
Nov 19, 20254 min read


Traditional Kintsugi vs Modern Kintsugi: what is the difference and how to choose a suitable practice.
Traditional kintsugi vs modern kintsugi explained. Explore cultural roots, materials, food safety, kits, and how to choose the right kintsugi path and tools.
mikster
Nov 16, 20257 min read


2025 Japan Urushi Forestry & Kintsugi Workshop – A Deep Dive into Craft, Forest, and Culture
2025 Japan Urushi Forestry & Kintsugi Workshop is here! Join this once-in-a-lifetime Japan travel experience
mikster
Apr 2, 20253 min read


Journey into the Heart of Kintsugi: A Look Back at the Urushi Forestry & Kintsugi Travel Workshop 2024
Every journey tells a story, but some experiences leave a lasting imprint on the heart. The Daigo Urushi Forestry and Kintsugi Travel...
mikster
Feb 2, 20254 min read


What is Urushi? Why Is Urushi So Expensive and Have a Short Shelf Life?
The True Value of Urushi: Why This Priceless Natural Lacquer Deserves Your Respect Premium ki urushi is Japan-grown urushi with the...
mikster
Oct 5, 20245 min read


Can you eat out of a kintsugi bowl? What is food-safe kintsugi? A Guide to Safe Materials and Techniques in Traditional Kintsugi
In an age where sustainability and the spirit of reuse are becoming more important, many people are turning to kintsugi to repair their cherished items. Whether it's a favorite coffee mug or something with sentimental value, kintsugi not only extends the life of these objects but also reduces waste . The practice aligns beautifully with the ethos of repairing rather than discarding, and for many, the desire to use these repaired items in their daily lives, especially for food
mikster
Sep 21, 20244 min read


Kintsugi Tools, Tips, Tutorial: Carving and Adjusting Bamboo Spatulas
Among the many reasons we love practicing traditional kintsugi is the beauty of the handmade tools involved, such as the authentic maki-e...
mikster
Aug 14, 20242 min read


From Tree to Treasure: Shiro Yanagi’s Urushi Journey
Shiro Yanagi’s extraordinary journey nurturing and crafting from the urushi tree, preserving the tradition of lacquer craft.
mikster
Aug 3, 20243 min read


Unveiling the Truth About Kintsugi Kits: Did you pay over $100 for BBQ Skewers?
Truth About Kintsugi Kits: Did you pay over $100 for BBQ Skewers? Time to up the game (and your tool box)
mikster
Jul 17, 20242 min read


The Essence of Japanese Craftsmanship: Japan Urushi Forestry & Kintsugi Workshop 2025
Escape the over-crowded Tokyo and Kyoto. JOIN US. 2024 Japan Cultural immersion Japanese lacquer cultivation and kintsugi crafts workshop.
mikster
Jun 12, 20242 min read


Useful Kintsugi technique: Preventing Urushi Brown Stain in Kintsugi Repair on Porcelain and Light-color Clay
Useful Kintsugi technique: Preventing Urushi Brown Stain in Kintsugi Repair on Porcelain and Light-color Clay
mikster
May 28, 20242 min read


Make an Impact in 2024: Support Japan Noto Earthquake Disaster Relief
We start 2024 with Good Thoughts and Good Cause: Support Japan Noto Earthquake Disaster Relief
mikster
Feb 11, 20246 min read


Japan Travel Workshop 2023: Japanese Lacquer & Kintsugi Workshop
In the serene heart of Japan, where tradition meets nature's beauty, we unveil a remarkable opportunity that celebrates the artistry of...
mikster
Sep 15, 20233 min read


In the 37C summer heat, we received a sad news from the urushi Japanese lacquer tree forest.
In the quiet town of Daigo, nestled amid the lush urushi lacquer forest, a heartbreaking news resonates through the community. The...
mikster
Aug 5, 20233 min read


Traditional Kintsugi Tutorial & Tips: Touching up Kintsugi? No Problem!
Traditional Kintsugi is forgiving. You can touch up the imperfection of the imperfect.
mikster
Jun 10, 20231 min read


The Ultimate Kintsugi Supplies Guide: Why Building Your Own Authentic Kintsugi Kit is Best
Looking for traditional kintsugi supplies? A good place to start before investing in kintsugi kit or tools. A keeper!
mikster
Mar 29, 20236 min read


New Video Posted! "All about Spatulas" for Kintsugi
Are you still using those bamboo skewers from your kintsugi hobby kit? Save them for your BBQ or yakitori chicken-wing party! We have...
mikster
Jul 26, 20221 min read


Which is your favorite tool(s) in traditional Kintsugi craft of Golden Joinery?
How well do you know your kintsugi brushes? Dig deeper into authentic kintsugi material and tools. Curate your own kintsugi kit!
mikster
Jul 4, 20222 min read
bottom of page