Intro to Kintsugi (Japanese pottery repair)

Instructor - Quantum Wei

Quantum first started practicing Kintsugi in 2021 when he wanted to fix a broken souvenir plate (two pieces, epoxy + liquid gold leaf). Since then, he has ventured deeper into the art by working on more complex breaks and utilizing traditional materials (urushi lacquer), and constructing a muro (wooden curing box). During his latest trip to Japan, he took a workshop with kintsugi master David Pike. For more, visit kinstugi.boston.

Class Description

Kintsugi is the Japanese tradition of pottery repair. In this art, broken pieces are reassembled, and cracks are highlighted rather than hidden.

When joined with the traditional urushi lacquer, repairs can take weeks or even months as each curing step can require 2-7 days in the muro (a humid curing box).

In this class, we will use a quick-cure epoxy, allowing you to go home at the end of the day with a final piece. This is a nice way to get started since urushi lacquer is so time-intensive - and slightly hazardous!

Material Fee

The materials fee for this class is $20. This is separate from the ticket price and is to reimburse the instructor for any tools or materials used in this class. This will be paid once, directly to the instructor at the start of the first class meeting. This instructor accepts cash.

Class Goals

Learn about traditional Kintsugi and how urushi lacquer and the muro curing boxes were used.

Repair a piece of broken pottery using Epoxy and liquid gold leaf.

Material Supplied

Epoxy, liquid gold leaf, painter's tape, sandpaper, rubber bands, etc.

Students Should Bring

Your own pieces of broken pottery to repair. Keep it simple (not too many pieces).

Prerequisites

A ll ages are welcome. All students under 18 must be accompanied by and under the direct supervision of a responsible adult.

Class Policies

Learn more about our class and ticket cancelation policies here.

Please email education@artisansasylum.com with any questions.

*Sales end 24 hours before the start of the class to allow the instructor and staff time to prep.