Kintsugi (金継ぎ),  literally means “golden repair.” It is the Japanese art of repairing broken ceramics in a way that honors their history rather than concealing it.

Traditional Hon-Kintsugi uses natural urushi lacquer and follows centuries-old Japanese methods of repair. Modern decorative “kintsugi” often uses epoxy resin and metallic powders to achieve a similar appearance more quickly. While both celebrate repair, Ma Kōbō practices traditional Hon-Kintsugi using natural urushi lacquer.

Urushi is a natural lacquer harvested from the lacquer tree (Toxicodendron vernicifluum). It has been used in Japan for centuries for both decorative and functional objects. Traditional Hon-Kintsugi relies on urushi as both an adhesive and a finish throughout the repair process.

No. Ma Kōbō practices traditional Hon-Kintsugi using natural urushi lacquer rather than epoxy resin. Decorative epoxy methods are faster and more accessible, but they are distinct from the traditional Japanese process.

Natural urushi lacquer has been used in Japan for centuries and remains the foundation of traditional Hon-Kintsugi. While epoxy offers a faster repair, urushi allows the restoration to follow the original methods of the craft. At Ma Kōbō, the material is inseparable from the practice.

Begin by sending photographs of the whole piece, the damaged areas, and any loose fragments, along with its approximate dimensions. Please mention any previous repairs and tell me how you hope to use the piece.

These details help me assess what may be possible. We can then discuss the approach, finish, estimated cost, and timing. Some questions may require seeing the piece in person.

A previous repair does not necessarily rule out further work, but it can affect what is possible. Please send photographs and, if you know, the name of the adhesive or other materials used.

I’ll need to assess the earlier repair before recommending an approach. Please contact me before attempting to remove it.

Please contact me before sending or bringing a piece. Ma Kōbō works in Colorado and Costa Rica; we will confirm the appropriate location, method of delivery and timing for your repair.

Most pottery and porcelain can be repaired, but every vessel is unique. I’ll need photographs or the piece itself, to determine what is possible.

Yes. Glass can often be repaired, although it requires a different approach during the early stages of restoration than ceramic. Because glass is generally more fragile than ceramic, repairs require additional care and are often more time-intensive. I’ll need photographs, or the piece itself, to determine what is possible. Once repaired, glass pieces are typically better suited for display or gentle use rather than everyday handling.

Yes. Many repairs involve sentimental, antique, or one-of-a-kind pieces. Every vessel is evaluated individually to determine whether traditional Hon-Kintsugi is an appropriate approach and what level of restoration is possible.

Yes. Traditional Hon-Kintsugi can often repair chips, cracks, broken pieces, and missing fragments. The appropriate method depends on the condition of the vessel and the extent of the damage.

Even fragments can often be restored using traditional fillers. Missing pieces are rebuilt stage by stage before the finishing layers are applied.

Repairs generally take weeks to months, depending on the damage, the number of stages, and the curing required between them. I can offer a more specific estimate after assessing your piece.

Natural urushi lacquer cures through humidity rather than evaporation. Each layer must cure completely before the next can be applied, making traditional repairs a process measured in weeks or months rather than days. The pace of the repair is determined by the materials and the vessel itself.

Suitability for food use depends on the original vessel, the repair materials, and full curing. Please tell me how you hope to use your piece when you enquire.

Food contact, hot liquids, holding water, and frequent handling place different demands on an object and its repair. I’ll assess the intended use with you and explain any limitations. Some pieces are better suited to display.

No. Traditional Kintsugi is not dishwasher, oven, or microwave safe. High heat and pressure can damage the cured lacquer or finishes.

Hand-wash gently with a soft cloth and avoid extremes of heat. Kintsugi pieces should not go in the dishwasher, microwave, or oven.

Yes. Ma Kōbō offers traditional Hon-Kintsugi workshops and private retreats in Colorado and Costa Rica. Workshops introduce the craft, while retreats offer an opportunity for deeper study through extended studio practice.

We work with prepared vessels at different stages of repair, so you can experience the process without waiting through every curing period. Each stage has its own practice piece. The workshop follows the traditional method while allowing time to understand and practise the work.

No. Ma Kōbō provides all practice pieces and materials. Each vessel has been selected to illustrate a different stage of traditional Hon-Kintsugi, allowing participants to experience the complete process while the workshop progresses at a shared pace.

We work with prepared vessels at different stages, rather than completing one repair from beginning to end. The final vessel you work on will be shipped to you after it has cured for 30 days. We will explain how to care for your piece and when it can be used.

Yes. Kintsugi kits sourced directly from Japan are available for purchase by participants who have completed a Ma Kōbō experience or workshop. They offer a way to continue practising the techniques you have learned. Please ask me about availability.

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.

Ma Kōbō is dedicated exclusively to traditional Hon-Kintsugi using natural urushi lacquer. The studio emphasizes careful craftsmanship, small-group learning, and the philosophy of repair, where the process matters as much as the finished piece.

Ma Kōbō offers repairs, workshops, and private retreats in Colorado, USA, and Costa Rica.

Because some things, like trust, repair, and real connection, take time.

Like Kintsugi, they ask for presence, patience, and care.

I believe in slow conversations, quiet gestures, and showing up without a filter.