Urushi research



About urushi

Urushi is a natural resin collected from sumac trees, found only in Asia. Since ancient times, it has been used as paint and adhesive since the Jomon period (about 10,000 years ago). When urushi trees are damaged, lacquer is the sap that trees release to protect themselves. A precious natural blessing that can only be harvested about 200g from trees grown over 10 to 15 years. Craftsmen called lacquer scrapers collect them little by little over a period of about 5 months from trees grown with hand salt.

The lacquer coating is moist and blends in with human skin, and is so comfortable and warm that it can be compared to a baby's skin. It also has natural antibacterial and bactericidal effects, and is excellent from the viewpoint of safety and security. The unique luster and texture created by continuous use is unique to nature, which cannot be achieved with chemical paint. I naturally feel attached to it, and I use it with care. Even if it deteriorates, it can be repainted and used across generations. It fosters a heart that values things, and also leads to respecting ancestors. It has a strong image as a luxury item, but it can be used repeatedly for a long time, and in fact, it is a familiar thing suitable for everyday use.

Material “Thinking about the future of urushi”

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The conventional manufacturing method Nayashi Kurome was developed
Our unique refining technology

High dispersion paint “Korin”

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Shrink-resistant and less likely to sag

Spray paint “kui”

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Brushes: Inconspicuous rake pigments

“New Rake” lacquer pigment

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Natural lacquer on glass, ceramics, metals, shellfish, etc.
Special surface treatment for strong adhesion

QUALIA COATING

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Strong adhesion to glass, ceramics, etc.
No polishing, no primer treatment, no baking treatment

“Glass Urushi”

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Joint development between “Sanwa Polishing Industries” and “Tsutsumi Asayoshi Lacquer Shop”

“Sanwa Lacquer Grinding Material”

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Kinzugi, maki-e, spirals, urushi
A revolutionary whetstone that replaces “unbreakable” and “undiminished” needle charcoal

Alternative needle charcoal “Asakichi Whetstone”

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