FAQs
What does “Kintsugi” mean?
Kintsugi (金継ぎ), or "golden joinery," literally means “golden repair”—a poetic term for the art of honoring breaks rather than hiding them
Is Kintsugi restoration food-safe?
Yes. Traditional Kintsugi is food-safe once fully cured. Gold and silver finishes can be safely used for food and drink. Finishes in tin, bronze, or copper are not food-safe, but they are well-suited for decorative or gentle daily use.
Can repaired pieces go in the dishwasher or microwave?
No — traditional Kintsugi is not dishwasher, oven, or microwave safe. High heat and pressure can damage the cured lacquer or finishes
How long does a repair take?
Repairs generally span weeks to months, depending on the number of stages, curing times, and environmental conditions (ideal drying temperature is ~68–77 °F with 70–80% humidity)
Do I need to bring a broken vessel to a workshop?
Not always. If you are nearby, you are welcome to bring your own piece. If not, we can arrange for your vessel to be shipped to the studio, or provide a practice piece for you to learn on.
Can you repair any kind of ceramic?
Most pottery and porcelain can be repaired, but every vessel is unique. I’ll need to see photos or the piece itself to determine what is possible.
What happens if my piece is badly damaged or missing fragments?
Even fragments can often be restored using traditional fillers. Missing pieces are rebuilt stage by stage before the finishing layers are applied.
How should I care for a repaired piece?
Hand-wash gently with a soft cloth and avoid extremes of heat. Kintsugi pieces should not go in the dishwasher, microwave, or oven.
How much does a repair cost?
Every repair is unique. Costs reflect the time involved, the materials required, and the chosen finish. Please contact me with details about your piece so we can begin the conversation.