TOKYO

Makers’ Base Tokyo

A casual introduction to making traditional Japanese crafts in the heart of Tokyo

This DIY Workshop in Tokyo’s trendy Meguro Ward offers visitors a chance to learn the art of kintsugi under the instruction of a skilled artisan.
The concept of kintsugi, repairing broken ceramics with gold lacquer, has grown in popularity in recent years. For some, it is a form of therapy and meditation, a symbolic restoration of something broken in their lives, made beautiful by highlighting the flaw rather than hiding it. For others, it’s simply a way to enjoy a traditional Japanese craft that has been practiced for nearly 500 years.

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A Safe and Easy Kintsugi Experience

Makers’ Base Tokyo is a multicrafts workshop in Meguro ward that offers an introductory experience to the art of kintsugi. Makers’ Base uses a food-safe synthetic lacquer that is also safe for your skin, unlike the expensive natural lacquer that can cause severe skin irritation to those not used to working with it. The workshop also uses brass powder rather than gold, which is similar in appearance at a much lower cost. This takes the pressure off of beginners who may be afraid of making mistakes while trying kintsugi for the first time.

If you don’t want to lug your broken object in a suitcase to Japan, Makers’ Base offers “pre-broken” goods ranging from plates to cups and bowls. The artisan ensures that the items are broken in ways that are easily repairable using kintsugi in a reasonable timeframe. The experience can take about 90 minutes to 2 hours to complete, with the artisan nearby to answer any questions and assist you with difficult steps. The workshop can also accommodate small groups of people, so the kintsugi experience is perfect for families or friends traveling together.

Make and Purchase Other Handcrafted Items

Kintsugi is one of several workshops hosted at Makers’ Base Tokyo, including jewelry-making, pottery, and stone accessories (reservations required). Although workshops are conducted in Japanese, no Japanese fluency is required to participate, and the patient instructors will do their best to help you. There is also a shop selling handcrafted items made by artisans who use the facility; feel free to browse the unique items and pick out something special as a souvenir.