Kintsugi and Urushiware Repairs
Transmitting Sentiment, Bridging Hearts
We provide Kintsugi repair services, helping to restore your cherished items. We also offer a Kintsugi Kit that lets you experience the art of Kintsugi at home. Through the repair process, we restore the object while preserving its memories and history, strengthening the connection to the things we treasure.
Kintsugi / Gintsugi / Urushitsugi
In a world of cheap, disposable products, we often replace what’s broken without thinking twice. But in doing so, we lose something precious—the bond we form with the things we cherish. A plate shared with loved ones, a bowl passed down through generations, a teacup full of memories. When they break, nothing can replace the sentiment. Kintsugi doesn’t just repair; it honours these memories. By mending with Urushi and gold, it creates a bridge between the past and future, keeping the story—and the love—alive. We offer Kintsugi repair services and also sell a Kintsugi repair kit, “Urushino ippo -Kintsugi-” so you can experience the art of Kintsugi in your own home.
1.Kintsugi
After bonding and filling chips and cracks with natural Urushi, the piece is decorated with gold powder. The finish can be either glossy using gold round powder(maru-fun), polished to a shine, or a matte finish using gold powder(keshi-fun), creating a more subdued, elegant look.
2.Gintsugi
After bonding and filling chips and cracks with natural Urushi, the piece is decorated with gold powder. The finish can be either glossy using gold round powder(maru-fun), polished to a shine, or a matte finish using gold powder(keshi-fun), creating a more subdued, elegant look. It is more affordable than the gold finish.
3.Urushitsugi
After bonding and filling the chips or cracks with natural Urushi, the final finish is applied using coloured Urushi, such as black, red, or white. This option allows you to choose a colour that complements the texture, colour, and design of your item. The standard colours are red, black, and white (beige), but if you prefer other shades, you can select from the colour samples below and specify your choice in the “Special Requests” section of the order form.
This finish offers a more affordable alternative to gold or silver finishes, while still providing a beautifully restored result. It is an excellent choice for those who want a high-quality repair at a lower cost. Please note that the colour samples are for reference only, and the final colour may vary slightly depending on the type of repair and the season. Certain colours, such as pure white or pastel shades, are not achievable with Urushi.
Available Colours
4.Kintsugi, Gintsugi, Urushitsugi for Glass
Kintsugi repairs can also be done on glass; however, compared to ceramics, glass has poorer adhesion, which may affect the strength of the repair. Additionally, depending on the extent of the cracks or chips, and the shape of the item, there may be cases where repairs are not possible, and this is more common with glass than ceramics. Please be aware that the repair process may take more than three months. We appreciate your understanding and encourage you to contact us for consultation before proceeding.
Reference Price Example (excluding tax)
Chip
Repairs are possible for chips ranging from small ones about 1mm deep to larger chips over 1cm.
*Note: Chips are assumed to be without the missing fragments. If fragments are present, it will be considered a “crack,” so please confirm.
- Approximately 2mm square chip: From 5,780 yen
- About 1cm square chip: From 9,000 yen
crack
If left untreated, cracks can cause leakage or further breakage. We reinforce and beautify the crack using the Kintsugi technique, making it stronger and more aesthetically pleasing.
*For cracks, we will repair a slightly longer area than what is visible. Additionally, even in cases of breakage, we may repair small surrounding cracks. Minor cracks will be assessed and repaired as we see fit, but if it is likely to significantly alter the finished look or price, we will confirm with you beforehand.
*If the crack is deep and unstable, or if it covers more than 3/4 of the item, we may need to break the piece further and repair it as a break. Please understand this in advance.
- 5cm cracks: From 7,430 yen
- 10cm cracks: From 10,800 yen
Break
Even items that are completely broken can be repaired as long as all the parts are intact. If a piece is lost, Kintsugi repair can still be done depending on the size and shape.
*Please note that the following are reference prices. The cost may vary depending on the size, shape, and type of damage (crack or chip), so please understand in advance. Additionally, prices may vary depending on the type of finish chosen.
*If the crack is deep and unstable, or if the crack extends over 3/4 of the object, it may need to be broken again before repairing, so please be aware of this in advance.
- 5cm crack: From 8,480 yen
- 20cm crack: From 13,500 yen
*Repairs for combinations of chips + cracks or breaks + cracks are also possible. Please fill out the necessary details in the request form below, and we will provide you with a quote.
How to Request a Repair
Please complete the required details in the request form and attach a photo of the damaged item.
- We will send you an estimate by email within 2 weeks.
- After reviewing the estimate, if you agree to the terms, please proceed with your application.
- We will provide you with our bank details for payment.
- Once we receive your payment, please either bring the item to us or ship it (shipping costs will be borne by the customer).
- The repair will take approximately 3 months. Once completed, we will notify you via email or phone.
- After the repair is completed, you can either pick up your item in person or have it delivered to you.
Photo Guidelines
When submitting photos of the damaged item, please refer to the examples below for proper angles and clarity.
Photography Examples
- When taking the overall photo, we would appreciate it if you could include a ruler for scale.
- If the item is broken into several pieces, please try to arrange the fragments so that the general shape is still visible in the photo.
- If there are no fragments, please take a photo with a ruler placed next to the broken area.
- For cracks, it is often difficult to see thin cracks at first glance. After inspecting the item in person, we may repair cracks that are slightly longer than what is visible and may address any additional cracks. If the repair significantly alters the appearance or price, we will contact you for confirmation and a revised estimate.
- For hygiene reasons, please ensure the item is clean before photographing. While we do check the condition of the item, mold can develop quickly, especially in summer, so we appreciate your cooperation in keeping it clean.
Urushiware repair
We also accept repairs and repainting Urushi-coated products such as bowls and plates, bento boxes, furniture, Buddhist altars and Buddhist altars. Please contact us by phone or email regarding these inquiries.
TEL：075-351-6279
MAIL：ttm.urushi@gmail.com
FAQ
Q. Can you repair glass items?
Yes, we can repair glass, but due to the poor adhesion of Urushi on glass, it may not be possible to repair depending on the size and shape. Additionally, we do not accept repairs using synthetic adhesives like epoxy resin. We only use natural Urushi for the repairs. Please note that it may take longer than ceramic items.
Q. Can I use my Kintsugi repaired items in a microwave or dishwasher?
No, items that have undergone Kintsugi repairs should not be used in a microwave or dishwasher.
Q. Are there items that cannot be repaired with Kintsugi?
While Kintsugi can be performed on many items, we do not recommend it for objects like earthenware pots used over direct flames, as heat can cause sparks with gold or silver. However, repairs are still possible if the item is not used in direct heat. For example, if you wish to use the item as a vase or a bowl, it can be repaired without issue.
Q. Can you repair inexpensive items with Kintsugi?
Absolutely! Kintsugi is available for items of all values, especially if the item holds sentimental value. We can repair both Western and Japanese items alike.
Q. Can I do Kintsugi myself?
Yes, we offer a Kintsugi DIY kit, the “Urushino ippo -Kintsugi-” for you to try at home. Additionally, we have instructional videos available for you to watch before purchasing, including:
Please also check the videos that anyone can watch before purchasing.
Part1[Knowledge and Preparation]
Part2[Making Mugi Urushi]
Part3[Adhesion]
Q. Why does it take a long time to complete?
Natural Urushi requires time to harden, and each step takes time to ensure durability and strength. We allow ample time for drying to maximise the strength of the repair, which is why the process may take longer than other materials.