Kintsugi ‘golden joinery’ is a traditional Japanese method of restoring broken pottery that dates back to the 15th century. Craftsmen would use urushi, a natural lacquer, to join, fill, and cover the breaks.

In this beginner's course, participants will learn how to repair pottery using authentic materials: urushi, tonoko, bengara (no epoxy or putty) . We will not be using real gold in this course as it requires some experience to work with.

Please note that this is a sequence of 4 on-line sessions, each lasting 1.5 hours with a 10-minute break. Participants need to attend all sessions over a few months to understand the whole process. Make sure to show up on time to participate. Latecomers should be aware that there won't be a recap provided by mizuyo during the live sessions. The sessions involve demonstrations through video and slides, along with live Q&A sessions. Participants are welcomed to ask questions.

* Objects repaired with kintsugi should not be used in the microwave, dishwasher, or oven.

WORKSHOPS ARE NOT RECORDED, but the demonstration videos used in the workshop will be accessible after the course.

You will need: Kintsugi beginners kit*, a few broken/chipped potteries, tile or plastic sheet, plain wheat flour, turpentine, rag or tissue papers, cling film, toothpick, water and a cardboard/wooden/plastic box.

Important Health & Safety: Allergy to urushi. If you’re allergic to poison ivy, mango, cashew nuts and pistachio, you’re most likely allergic to urushi as well. Latex gloves and warnings are included in the kit. So far about 10% of people have reported an allergic reaction to the urushi used in the course.

The sessions will take place via Zoom. A link with instructions on connecting will be sent to you before the class.

2024 Times and Dates:

28th (Sun) January 1930-2100 GMT

11th (Sun) February 1930-2100 GMT

25th (Sun) February 1930-2100 GMT

14th (Sun) April 1930-2100 BST