Beginner's Guide to Kintsugi: The Japanese Art of Repairing Pottery and Glass

by Michihiro Hori

Old, broken objects can become more beautiful than ever!The thought of throwing away a cherished dish or mug can be heartbreaking. If you've ever wanted to repair a treasured piece rather than tossing it in the trash--but didn't know how--the traditional Japanese art of Kintsugi ("gold repair") offers the perfect solution!A Beginner's Guide to Kintsugi teaches you the traditional Japanese techniques of pottery and glass repair based on the ancient Wabi Sabi idea that imperfections are beautiful, and visible repairs are part of the "life story" of an object.Author Michihiro Hori provides simple, safe, and inexpensive methods that you can do at home using tools and materials that are readily available online. Hori guides you through the entire process--from assembling and mixing the materials to reconstructing replacements for hopelessly shattered shards.With this book, you'll learn how Reinforce cracks, rebuild shattered areas, and apply the time-honored staple techniqueFix broken handles so they are fully functional againSafely work with lacquer and metallic powders to achieve beautiful, visible repairsWork with a variety of repair materials from gold leaf to washi paperRepair pottery and glass using traditional techniques for stunning resultsAs you take the time to prepare your materials and work closely with the pieces, you'll find yourself becoming attuned to the mindful philosophy at the heart of Kintsugi and the Wabi Sabi principle of appreciating old and imperfect objects. Most of all, the meditative process of Kintsugi will help you look at broken objects in a new way.

Genres: Nonfiction, Japan

105 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 26, 2022

Reviews

[Kamryn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m a true beginner who was curious about kintsugi and how easy it is to pick up. The book’s tone had some humor but was very frank about how much time the process can take as well as how difficult specific techniques can be, and overall it seemed to be pretty credible. I don’t feel comfortable rating it 5⭐️ just because I’m unable to verify its accuracy and success rate, but this book seems like a good stepping off point for folks who want to try it out.

[Claire · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think this is a useful and beautiful practice. One I don't think I have the patience for. Skill would simply come with practice. My favourite examples here are the ones that use a piece that does not come from the original object. I think they are beautiful. "Does this enrich my life?"

[Andy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is very practical and provides specifics for technique and process. I bumped it ahead in my queue because recently broke my favorite mug and wanted to understand how to get started in mending it.

[Mary Foxe · Rating 3 out of 5]

DNF.

[Aldene · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lots of photographs and I now have an over abundance of confidence that I can try to fix some dishes. Ordering supplies is a challenge but I am excited to see if it works out.

[T. Ayn Brockhaus · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked the book

I like this book because it is very informative for a person with very limited Kintsugi knowledge, the balance between photos and instructions were very helpful.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

great book

Such a great book with Easy to follow tutorials. Beautiful visuals. Looking forward to my own projects that will hopefully be as beautiful.