Art Kintsugi Introductory Workshop

Learn the mindful Japanese art of golden ceramic mending and give new life to a damaged piece with our Handcrafts courses in Sydney!

Kintsugi is a centuries-old Japanese craft where broken ceramic objects are pieced back together using lacquer and gold dust. It’s based on the philosophy of Wabi Sabi — finding beauty in imperfection.

The process transforms much-loved, broken items into beautifully crafted new works of art. It’s a chance to live more sustainably and rescue objects that might otherwise be discarded.

In this relaxed workshop, you’ll learn the introductory technique of Art Kintsugi mending. Following seven essential steps, you’ll use modern, accessible materials — and bring home a piece of your own Kintsugi art.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this Art Kintsugi course, you should be able to:

• Achieve the fundamental skills to repair damaged ceramic pieces using the Art Kintsugi method with epoxy glue and putty
• Decorate the repaired piece by applying the Art Makie technique using lacquer and gold metal powder
• Understand the seven essential steps of the Art Kintsugi method
• Recognise different types of Kintsugi repair — traditional and modern methods
• Bring home a piece of your own Kintsugi art
• Understand how to rescue damaged objects in a sustainable way
• Source materials for future projects

Course content

What will be covered in this Art Kintsugi Introductory workshop?

• 4 hours of hands-on tuition
• A brief history of traditional Kintsugi
• Comparison of traditional slow methods and modern techniques
• Sourcing materials for future projects
• Structure and importance of the seven essential steps
• How to adapt these steps for more complex repairs (case by case)
• How to incorporate art and design into the repair process to create your original piece of Kintsugi art
• Purpose and safe use of tools and materials
• Information about food safety and materials (Australian food safety guide)

Course materials

All materials are included in the Art Kintsugi Introductory workshop:

• A small broken dish for repair
• Tool kit and materials for use in class
• Facial masks and gloves
• Printed information/instruction sheet

Please note: A suitable broken dish is provided in the class. Please do not bring your own items to repair during the workshop. If you have a damaged item you wish to repair, your tutor is happy to provide a short consultation after the class.

What to bring to class

• An apron or comfortable clothes that can get a little dusty
• Spectacles, if you normally wear them
• Hair tie or hair band (for long hair)

Additional information

Please note the following:

• This class is not recommended during pregnancy due to materials used
• Please note the finishing time may run slightly over
• We won’t commence the class until all students have arrived; late arrival will not be possible
• We will not be using pure gold (24k gold) in this workshop. Materials include epoxy, gum turpentine, lacquer, and metal powder
• Epoxy glues and other materials used may irritate your skin — disposable gloves will be provided
• It is essential (or strongly advisable) not to have hand injuries to participate in the Art Kintsugi process