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Process
Unlike many commercially available adhesives, natural urushi lacquer is a traditional material that, once fully cured, is food-safe and suitable for repairing tableware intended for everyday use. Each repair is completed by hand through multiple stages, allowing every layer of urushi to cure naturally before the next is applied.
Depending on the condition of your piece, the process typically takes 2–3 months to complete.
Repairs can also be finished with silver instead of gold. If you have a preferred finish, please mention it when submitting your request.
Pricing Guide
Broken
Small break (minimal fragmentation) — from £200
Large break (multiple fragments) — from £350
Cracked
Short crack — from £150
Long crack — from £200
Chipped
Small chip — from £150
Large chip — from £250
Additional Repair Length
The base prices include
up to 5 cm of total repair length.
For repairs exceeding 5 cm,
an additional charge of £5 per cm applies.
Final Quotation
The final quotation is based on:
Type of damage
Total repair length
Material of the ceramic
Missing fragments
Overall complexity of the repair
Selected finish (gold or silver)
A detailed quotation will be provided after reviewing the photographs and information submitted with your request.
The quotation will include the available finish options and their respective costs.
Payment
A 40% deposit is required to confirm your commission and reserve your place in the repair schedule.
Repairs will begin once the deposit has been received. The deposit is non-refundable once work has begun.
The remaining 60%, together with any applicable shipping costs, is payable once the repair has been completed and before your ceramic is returned.
Payment details will be provided with your quotation.
Delivery
As each repair is unique, the turnaround time may vary depending on the condition and complexity of the item. A more accurate estimate will be provided with your quotation after reviewing your request.
International commissions are welcome. Shipping arrangements and costs will be discussed during the quotation process.
Clients are responsible for all shipping costs to and from the studio. Shipping fees are not included in the repair price.
Please package your ceramic carefully to minimise the risk of damage during transit. I recommend using a tracked and insured delivery service whenever possible.
While every care is taken once your ceramic has arrived at the studio, I cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage that occurs during shipping.
Care
- Do not use the repaired ceramic in a microwave, as the gold, silver, or platinum finish may cause sparking.
- Do not place the repaired ceramic in a dishwasher. Always wash it by hand.
- Do not leave the ceramic filled with water or soak it for extended periods (more than 30 minutes), as prolonged moisture may weaken the repaired areas.
- Avoid pouring boiling water directly into the ceramic. Sudden changes in temperature may affect the repair.
- Do not use the repaired ceramic in an oven or over an open flame.
- Wash the ceramic gently with a soft sponge and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as the metallic finish is delicate.
- Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or extreme heat, which may affect the repaired areas over time.
Please Note
Traditional kintsugi using natural urushi lacquer is intended for everyday use when properly cared for. As every repair is carried out by hand using natural materials, slight variations in colour, texture, and finish are a natural part of the repair and reflect the unique character of each piece.
While every repair is made with durability in mind, repaired ceramics should be handled with the same care as any fine ceramic or handcrafted object.
FAQs
Most ceramic and porcelain items can be repaired using traditional urushi kintsugi. If you are unsure whether your piece is suitable, please submit a request with photographs for assessment.
Can missing pieces be replaced?
Yes. Small missing areas can often be reconstructed using traditional kintsugi techniques. The most suitable approach will depend on the condition of the ceramic.
Can repaired ceramics be used for food and drink?
Yes. Traditional urushi kintsugi is suitable for tableware once the urushi has fully cured. Please follow the care guidelines to help preserve the repair.
Can you repair ceramics with multiple breaks?
Yes. Ceramics with multiple breaks or missing fragments can often be repaired. The final approach and quotation will depend on the complexity of the damage.
How do I request a repair?
Please complete the Request Form and upload clear photographs of your ceramic. After reviewing the information, I will provide a quotation and an estimated turnaround time.
Do you accept international commissions?
Yes. International commissions are welcome. Shipping arrangements and costs will be discussed during the quotation process.
Can I choose the finish?
Yes. Repairs can be finished with gold, silver, or platinum. The available options and pricing will be included in your quotation.
What if I decide not to proceed after receiving a quotation?
There is no obligation to proceed. Once you have received your quotation, you are free to decide whether or not to continue with the repair.