I am a Drop Washi Paper Lantern. Count on me to light the way. I promise I won’t drop the ball.

Curator's Notes

Made from traditional washi paper these “Michiyuki-Tou” lanterns, designed by Rina Ono, shine a beautiful filtered light. Their low energy LED lights are powered by two AA batteries, making them convenient to power without cumbersome cords. They can function as night lamps, patio lights or to bring along during midnight strolls. They’re also a great way to create a suffused ambience at dinner as an alternative to candle light.

Musubi Washi Paper Lantern was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Hayashi Kougei

Designer: Rina Ono

Specifications

Dimensions: 6.6” (w) x 6.5” (l) x 8.9" (h) or 166mm (w) x 166mm (l) x 225mm (h)

Weight: 0.43 lbs or 0.2 kg

Materials: Washi (Japanese paper), wood, metal wire

Details

Made in Japan
Two AA batteries included
Cordless
LED light operated
Lantern collapses flat
Replacing batteries when light becomes dim ensures a brighter glow
Can be hung via the metal handle or placed on a flat surface

Nalata Nalata is founded on the belief that purchasing and learning about the product should go hand-in-hand. We believe in the transparency of design process and strive to showcase the people and stories behind our products. 

Nalata Nalata

Washi Paper Lantern - Musubi (drop)

Title

Home & Furniture

I am a Mother of Pearl Caviar Dish. Dish the caviar, not the dirt.

Curator's Notes

Over the summer we got married. Our friend, Anna, gave us the best pre-wedding day gift from the historic Russ & Daughters grocers. It was one of their signature mini coolers containing caviar and all the complementing sides needed for the two of us to enjoy before the chaos of the big day. It was a thoughtful gift that we have to admit, started us off on a very bad and expensive caviar addiction. It also got us thinking about all the proper caviar accessories we were missing from our cabinets. It didn’t make sense to eat such a delicacy with the existing bowls and metal spoons we had. Caviar should be eaten with utensils of inert materials, such as shells, that are not chemically reactive so they don’t taint the flavour.
We knew what we needed but everything we were encountering in the market didn’t suit our taste. This prompted us to think that what we were really looking for were utensils that felt precious and one of a kind. Something artisanal that was made by hand. We knew the perfect person who could help us – our friend Pat Kim, and that’s how this collaboration started. Pat's studio based in Brooklyn, Pat Kim Design, has been mastering mother of pearl as a material for quite some time so when we approached him with the idea, it was a natural fit. He was immediately up for exploring the concept. The result is a collection of caviar serving utensils for functional presentation that utilizes the natural shape of abalone shell while retaining the pureness in flavour of caviar.

Mother of Pearl Caviar Dish was designed by Pat Kim Design x Nalata Nalata

Designer/Maker

Maker: Pat Kim

Designer: Pat Kim Design x Nalata Nalata

Specifications

Dimensions:
Each dish varies in size and curvature due to the natural shape of the shell. The dimensions will vary. General dimensions are as follows:
2.2” (w) x 2.2” (l) x 0.4" (h) or 56mm (w) x 56mm (l) x 10mm (h)

Weight:
0.5 oz or 14 g

Materials: Abalone

Details

Handmade in Brooklyn, New York

Crafted of natural mother of pearl

The natural chemical balance of mother of pearl allows it to have no flavour impact, which will keep the pureness in flavour of the caviar

The dish can be placed on top of an inset glass bowl for ice to keep the caviar cool

The bowl can be polished from time to time to bring out the natural luster of the pearl

Each piece is hand made and one-of-a-kind.
Variations in curvature, shape, colour and pattern of each piece will occur. No two pieces will be alike.
Hand wash
Wipe dry with a soft cloth

Mother Of Pearl Caviar Dish

We are Gray Zero Twist Gauze Dot Towels. We're definitely one of a kind. Unique materials paired with a plump airy gauze weave and we've got the softness that rivals a baby's bottom!

Curator's Notes

Soft and lightweight, these towels incorporate a cotton pile with airy gauze dots to create a gentle textured textile. A luxurious bathroom basic with character!

Zero Twist Gauze Dot Towel Set was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Uchino

Specifications

Dimensions:
Body: 28” (w) x 55” (l) or 700mm (w) x 1400mm (l)
Hand: 20" (w) x 39" (l) or 500mm (w) x 1000mm (l)
Face: 13" (w) x 16" (l) or 340mm (w) x 400mm(l)

Weight:
Body: 0.61 lbs or 0.28 kg
Hand: 0.31 lbs or 0.14 kg
Face: 0.09 lbs or 0.04 kg

Materials: 97% Cotton and 3% Polyester

Details

Made in Japan
Towel set includes the body, hand and face towel
Zero twist yarn of cotton and polyester

Gauze dot texture is gentle to the skin
Designed to have a soft texture
Machine wash with mild detergent
Tumble dry low

Zero Twist Gauze Dot Towels - Gray

Size

I am a Stainless Steel Oval Dish. A little hand to hold your things, whether they be chocolate chips or diamond rings.

Curator's Notes

The unembellished form of this little dish shows off the brush-stroke texture that defines Takayoshi Narita's work. Its symmetry is also evidence of his mastery in the craft of forging metals, as he hand-hammers each piece from start to finish. The dish looks wonderful as a tray beneath an incense stand, or as an elegant dish for small sweets.

Stainless Steel Oval Dish was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Designer: Takayoshi Narita

Maker: Takayoshi Narita

Specifications

Dimensions:

3.8 ” (w) x 5.0 ” (l) x 0.5 ” (h) or 95 mm (w) x 127 mm (l) x 13 mm (h)

Weight:

2 oz or 69 gr

Materials:
Stainless Steel

Details

Handcrafted in Japan
Richly textured hand-forged surface
Composed of one piece
Each piece is uniquely handcrafted and will have slight variations in dimensions and weight
We recommend hand washing with mild soap and soft sponge

Stainless Steel Oval Dish (out Of Stock)

I am a Flower Teacup and Saucer. Flowers and tea make everything better.

Curator's Notes

Days just do not feel right without a cup of tea! I love Chinese and Japanese teas for certain occasions but find my self reaching out for good ol' fashioned black English teas to start my day. This size of teacup is fitting for my Earl Gray teas accompanied with sweets or breakfast because it feels like an individual teacup that can stand alone, plus it has the right amount of room to stir in milk.

Flower Teacup was curated by Angélique Chmielewski.

Designer/Maker

Maker: Masanobu Ando

Designer: Masanobu Ando

Specifications

Dimensions:
Teacup: 3.9” (w) x 5.3” (l) x 2.1" (h) or 9.8cm (w) x 13.3cm (l) x 2.9cm (h)

Saucer: 5.8” (w) x 5.8” (l) x 0.8" (h) or 14.6cm (w) x 14.6cm (l) x 1.9cm (h)

Weight:
Teacup: 4.2 oz or 119 g

Saucer: 5.6 oz or 159 g

Materials: Porcelain

Details

Handcrafted in Tajimi, Japan
Sold as a teacup and saucer set
Interior and exterior is a porcelain milk white glaze
Textured edges featured on handle with beautiful natural iron glaze deposits throughout the cup
Handwash
Each piece is uniquely handcrafted and will have variations
Do not dishwash

Flower Teacup And Saucer (out Of Stock)

Tea Cups

I am a large Chrysanthemum Plate. I was granted a magical spell that left me in a state of immortality. Where most of my plant genus is either annual or perennial, I never wilt. As my species come and go when the seasons change, I continue to remain just the same, a beautiful porcelain flower to make your home a place of delight!

Curator's Notes

Handcrafted in porcelain, this decorative plate has the texture of chrysanthemum petals on the interior to contrast with its smooth exterior. Striking as both a decor item, tray or serving plate, they look great against warm wood surfaces.

Large Chrysanthemum Plate was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Jicon

Designer: Masanori Oji

Specifications

Dimensions: 7.5” (w) x 7.5” (l) x 1.25” (h) or 191mm (w) x 191mm (l) x 32mm (h)

Weight: 0.90 lbs or 0.41 kg

Materials: Porcelain

Details

Made in Japan
Debossed Jicon logo on the bottom surface
Chrysanthemum design around the slope of the dish
Also available within the Chrysanthemum Plate Set
The brand name means "porcelain (JI) in modern times (CON)"
Porcelain is created in the house of IMAMURA of the Touetsugama Kiln, founded 350 years ago
The Touetsugama Kiln originated in Sasebo City in the Nagasaki prefecture but was redeployed to Arita in the Saga prefecture and succeded by IMAMURA Kenichi XIV
The kiln makes porcelain pieces for daily life with its traditional white porcelain techniques using Amakusa Touseki (porcelain stone)

Chrysanthemum Plate - Large

Home Decor

I am a Diamond Washi Paper Pendant Lamp Shade. A soft glowing light diffuses through me when the light flickers on - I transform into a shape that many look with awe upon.

Curator's Notes

This pendant shade, part of designer Rina Ono’s lighting collection for Hayashi Kougei, is made from traditional Japanese washi paper. There are so many things to love about it! It’s incredibly well crafted – from the same area as most of our washi paper products in the Gifu prefecture – and it emits a very diffused light through the paper, giving everything around a soft glow. I was also drawn to the collection because of the exquisite forms the pendants are available in.

Washi Paper Pendant Lamp Shade was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Hayashi Kougei

Designer: Rina Ono

Specifications

Dimensions: 15.4” (w) x 15.4” (l) x 7.5" (h) or 390mm (w) x 390mm (l) x 190mm (h)

Weight: 4 oz or 113 g

Materials: Washi (Japanese paper), wood, metal wire

Details

Made in Japan
Includes shade only
Cable, socket and bulb not included
Shade is packed flat and expands into shape
Pendant shades have a built in ‘C-shape wire ring’ that can easily rest on a standard socket
Shades collapse flat
Please contact us for questions about components or installation

Washi Paper Pendant Lamp Shade - Diamond

Pendant Lights

I am a Vase. Transformation to me is one of the most satisfying things. It can take what once was dead and allow for new life to spring.

Curator's Notes

Considered damaged to some, designer Yamazaki Yoshiki has transformed Japanese oak that’s been naturally weathered, discoloured and insect-bored, into everyday useful objects. The grooved channels, small holes and winding dark striations in the spalted wood vary to create a one-of-a-kind piece.

Vase was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: RetRe

Designer: Yamazaki Yoshiki

Specifications

Dimensions: 2.5” (w) x 2.5” (l) x 7.1” (h) or 63mm (w) x 63mm (l) x 93mm (h)

Weight: 5.7 oz or 162 g

Materials: Spalted Japanese Oak, glass

Details

Handmade in Japan using woodturning techniques

Each piece has unique variations of wood grain

Glass tube included inside the vase to protect the wood and to contain water

Dense in weight with a texture on the surface

As a brand RetRe aims to transform abandoned wood from village forests' into functional objects

Vase (out Of Stock)

Vases

I am a Noir Centerpiece Bowl. With the depth that I have, I can hold the world for you.

Curator's Notes

This is the largest piece Ryuji Mitani has ever created. It is handcrafted from a single solid block of wood. The center is slowly carved out and finely chiseled to create a multi-faceted surface texture that reflects light in a dynamic manner. Then it is lacquered in black urushi while controlling brush stroke direction to further enhance the brilliance of this rare gem-like piece.

Noir Centerpiece Bowl was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Ryuji Mitani

Designer: Ryuji Mitani

Specifications

Dimensions:
16” (w) x 18” (l) x 5.5” (h) or 400mm (w) x 455mm (l) x 150mm (h)

Weight:
5 lbs or 2 oz

Materials: Mountain Cherry Wood, Lacquer

Details

Handcrafted in Matsumoto, Japan
Features Ryuji Mitani's signature on the bottom of the bowl
Irregular rim
The bowl has tangible grooves on the interior and exterior surfaces
Do not soak urushi lacquered pieces in water for prolonged periods
Wash with a soft sponge and mild dish soap
Rinse with warm water
Wipe with a cloth and dry well
Lacquer is food safe
This is a one-of-a-kind work
Urushi lacquer will become less glossy and more matte as time goes by
Occasional oiling is recommended

Noir Centerpiece Bowl (out Of Stock)

I am a medium kakudo board. I come from wholesome roots so I know how to be a loyal sidekick. I'll always be there to catch your spills and play an essential part in your daily routines… cutting, serving and eating. So let me assist you, we will make a great team.

Curator's Notes

Beautifully crafted from solid cherry, Kakudo boards can be used as a cutting board, serving tray or even as a plate. Each board features has a ½” groove around its edge to catch run-offs and a rounded base to elevate the hardwood platform. The medium board is particularly ideal for cutting cheese and breads, and serving sushi and small appetizers.

Kakudo Board Medium was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Takahashi Kougei

Designer: Masanori Oji

Specifications

Dimensions:
11.25” (w) x 7.13” (l) x 0.88” (h) or
286mm (w) x 181mm (l) x 22mm (h)

Weight:
1.2 lbs or 0.54 kg

Materials:
Cherry Hardwood

Details

Made in Japan
Also available in a Large and Small size
Can be used as a cutting board or plate
Every corner and edge is rounded
Shapes of the boards match a variation of food servings
Grooves all around the rim catches liquids and crumbs
Occasional sanding (320 grit) will return the board to a smooth luster
Apply mineral oil periodically to seal against bacteria and to moisturize wood "Kakudo" means angle in Japanese and is in reference to the variation of angles that give tableware its unique functions and forms

Kakudo Board - Medium (out Of Stock)

I am a Bamboo Box. Bam! Boo! Did I scare you?

Curator's Notes

I love this clever design that showcases the natural character of the miraculous bamboo plant. The entire piece is made of bamboo, the lid carved from a single shoot, and the body of the box crafted from sheets of bamboo that have been steam rolled to create straight surfaces. Durable and light, its narrow shape is ideal for storing chopsticks on the tabletop, keeping them neatly contained but easily within reach. Bamboo is well-known for its versatility and usefulness, but has a deeper cultural significance in Japan. It symbolizes prosperity, continuous growth, and strength - noble ideas to think of each time you open this box.

Bamboo Box was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Simplicity

Specifications

Dimensions: 1.7” (w) x 10.5” (l) x 1.6" (h) or 43mm (w) x 266mm (l) x 41mm (h)

Weight: 4 oz or 106 g

Materials: Bamboo

Details

Made in Japan
Great for storing chopsticks, or as a stationary box for pens and pencils
Can also be used to keep bracelets and necklaces organized
Each piece is made from raw bamboo and will feature unique variations
Bamboo is sensitive to humidity, and may grow or shrink slightly in response to changes in the weather
To clean, wipe with a damp cloth and dry immediately
Food safe

Bamboo Box

I am a Copper Grater. I believe in teamwork, so one piece shouldn't stand out. As they say, the whole is grater than the sum of its parts.

Curator's Notes

Ginger is a staple in most of our drinks and cooking, so a grater is an essential tool in our kitchen. This copper grater is designed to keep the fibre and moisture of the ginger together to get the most out of the root. I use the grater every day for fresh ginger tea and it's made my routine so quick and tidy. The wide, flat bottom offers stability on the counter and the copper teeth stay sharp, making it so easy to grate ginger, daikon or any other root vegetable.

Copper Grater was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Oya Seisakusho

Specifications

Dimensions: 2.3" (w) x 3.6" (l) or 58mm (w) x 92mm (l)

Weight: 1.8 oz or 51 g

Materials: Copper, Tin plating

Details

Made in Japan
Not dishwasher safe

Features a hole on the handle for hanging
There may be irregularities in the blade as each tooth is raised and formed by hand
Copper portion will oxidize over time to develop patina
Can be polished with a metal cleaner to return natural luster to the piece

Copper Grater

Graters & Zesters

I am a Butter Knife. When alone I can’t cut it, I turn to my butter half.

Curator's Notes

Forged cutlery is made from thick pieces of stainless steel. The raw stainless steel in this collection is heated with a blowtorch in order to shape it by repeatedly beating with a hammer and other tools. This process causes the utensils to be very dense and in turn have unparalleled strength and weight. View the whole collection here.

Forged Cutlery was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Mitsuhiro Konishi

Designer: Mitsuhiro Konishi

Specifications

Dimensions:

0.6” (w) x 6.1” (l) x 0.4” (h) or
16mm (w) x 155mm (l) x 10mm (h)

Weight:

0.8 oz or 23 g

Materials:
Stainless Steel

Details

Made in Gifu, Japan
Composed of a solid piece of hand-forged stainless steel
We recommend hand washing with mild soap and soft sponge
Dry with soft cloth after washing
Each knife is individually handcrafted by a solo artisan. Contact us for lead times at 

Forged Butter Knife

Flatware

I am a Raised Plate. My upbringing was wonderful. I was very well raised.

Curator's Notes

What an elegant piece but I have to say, a raised plate like this is generally used at restaurants or upscale dining. Its not often we eat like this on a daily basis at home so I primarily use it during parties as a cake stand more than anything. The stark white porcelain glaze is as matte as you can get so it doesn’t take away from what's displayed and because its elevated, there is more emphasis on whatever you place on top. It really is ideal for cakes, pies or a sharing dish.

Raised Plate was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Tetsuya Otani

Designer: Tetsuya Otani

Specifications

Dimensions:
10.8” (w) x 10.8” (l) x 1.1” (h) or 27.5cm (w) x 25.5cm (l) x 3cm (h)

Weight:
2.1 lb or 980 g

Materials: Porcelain

Details

Made in Shigaraki, Japan
Hand crafted
Surface has a subtle dip
Plate is hollow underneath
We recommend hand washing

Raised Plate (out Of Stock)

I am a Square Bread Plate. Toast and I are the best of friends, keeping warm and crisp till the tasty end.

Curator's Notes

This hand-carved bread plate is perfect for serving toast at any meal. Japanese Mountain cherry wood is intentionally selected by Ryuji Mitani as it's textured surface absorbs just the right amount of heat, without making toast go soggy. We love how the soft carved grooves catch light and look like an old tree's bark covering the surface of the plate.

Square Bread Plate was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Ryuji Mitani

Designer: Ryuji Mitani

Specifications

Dimensions: 7.2” (w) x 7.2” (l) x 1.2" (h) or 18.3cm (w) x 18.3cm (l) x 2.5cm (h)

Weight: 9.3 oz or 263.7 g

Materials: Mountain cherry wood

Details

Handcrafted in Matsumoto, Japan
Angled walls to catch crumbs
Thick bottom
Soft bevelled edges
Hand-carved texture throughout
Wash with a soft sponge and water
Wipe with a cloth and dry well immediately after washing
For maintenance, oil the plate periodically with a neutral oil
Each piece is unique and will have variations

Square Bread Plate (out Of Stock)

I am a Noir Rimmed Plate. Looks can be deceiving - when you look at these walls, I’m not as shallow as you think.

Curator's Notes

We love this plate for combining Ryuji Mitani's signature Noir lacquer style with the distinctive characters of mountain cherry wood. The thick, black urushi is caught in the wood’s unique grains, catching the reflections of light and shadow within the piece. The plate's thin rimmed walls keep everything you're serving contained.

Noir Rimmed Plate was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Ryuji Mitani

Designer: Ryuji Mitani

Specifications

Dimensions:
9.5” (w) x 9.5” (l) x 1.1” (h) or 241mm (w) x 241mm (l) x 28mm (h)

Weight:
10.5 oz or 300 g

Materials: Mountain Cherry Wood, Food Safe Lacquer

Details

Handcrafted in Matsumoto, Japan
Features Ryuji Mitani's signature on the bottom of the plate
Do not soak urushi lacquered pieces in water for prolonged periods
Wash with a soft sponge and mild dish soap
Rinse with warm water
Wipe with a cloth and dry well
Each piece is unique and will have variations
Urushi lacquer will become less glossy and more matte as time goes by

Noir Rimmed Plate (out Of Stock)

I am a T all Hinoki Box. My sides fit together like a puzzle, but I am an easy storage solution!

Curator's Notes

There are so many things I love about this box, from its lightly fragrant wood to its joinery details. Designed to hold cutlery, the hinoki cypress wood is highly durable and resistant to water, making it perfect for the kitchen. But feel free to use this box to organize whatever tools you have lying around - pencils or pens would also have a wonderful home in this box.

Tall Hinoki Box was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Asahineko

Designer: Makoto Koizumi

Specifications

Dimensions:

2.5 ” (w) x 3.6 ” (l) x 5.4 ” (h) or 62 mm (w) x 91 mm (l) x 137 mm (h)

Weight:

4 oz or 104 gr

Materials:

Hinoki Cypress

Details

Made in Japan

Hinoki Cypress is naturally moisture and mildew resistant, making this piece suitable for daily kitchen use
Can be used to organize cutlery or as a stationary holder
Lightweight yet strong
Hinoki Cypress gives off a light, pleasant fragrance
Joinery is visible on corners and sides
Inner divider extends halfway in the container
To wash, use soft sponge and mild soap and wipe dry
Also available in sizes Short and Flat

Hinoki Box - Tall

I am a Cone Pendant Lamp. I’m not the kind of cone you can lick but my interior surface is just as slick.

Curator's Notes

Crafted entirely by hand at the renowned Futagami foundry in Takaoka city, these pendant shades hang gracefully with their unique geometric forms. The Cone pendant features a beautiful contrast in surfaces with its polished brass interior and crude cast brass exterior. Includes pendant shade and canopy cup only.

Cone Pendant Lamp was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Futagami
Designer: Oji Masanori

Specifications

Dimensions:
Pendant Shade: 7.1” (w) x 7.1” (l) x 5.5” (h) or 180mm (w) x 180mm (l) x 140mm (h)

Canopy: 3" (w) x 3" (l) x 2"(h) - interior canopy height is 1.5"

Weight: 2.5 lbs or 1.1 kg

Materials: Brass

Details

Handmade in Japan
The Cone pendant has a crude cast exterior surface and polished interior
Includes shade and ceiling canopy cup only
Cable and bulb not included
Professional installation recommended
Please contact us for questions about components or installation

Cone Pendant Lamp

I am a Glass Lotus Bowl. Like the fairest flower to emerge from a murky pond, I too underwent an exquisite transformation with marvelous glass forming techniques.

Curator's Notes

This hand-blown lotus inspired bowl gleams beautifully as light hits it’s organically shaped rim at different angles. The bowl sits with a lightweight and fluid appearance enhanced by a tinge of inky black tones. A smaller version of this bowl is available here.

Glass Lotus Bowl was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Studio Prepa

Designer: Katsuhisa Hira and Mizuho Hira

Specifications

Dimensions: 8” (w) x 9.5” (l) x 3.8" (h) or 203mm (w) x 241mm (l) x 95mm (h)

Weight: 1.6 lbs or 0.7 kg

Materials: Glass

Details

Handblown in Nagano, Japan
The rim of the bowl has a wave-like shape inspired by lotus flowers resting in a pond
As these bowls are handmade, slight variations in size may exist

Glass Lotus Bowl Large - Black

I am a Fish Spoon. Fishing and spooning are two of my favorite activities.

Curator's Notes

This fish spoon is a utensil designed to help you enjoy your fish with ease and grace. The notch in its side removes small bones, and also allows excess oil to drain away. The spoon's wide, flat surface picks up tender, flaky fish without causing it to fall apart, and is imperative in enjoying every last bit of broth or sauce. Its extra shallow basin means you don't even have to tip the bowl or plate!

Fish Spoon was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Simplicity

Specifications

Dimensions: 1.5” (w) x 7.0” (l) x 0.1" (h) or 38mm (w) x 178mm (l) x 2mm (h)

Weight: 0.1 oz or 3 g

Materials: Bamboo

Details

Made in Japan
Designed to eat fish, but is excellent as a spoon for broths and sauces
Each piece is made from raw bamboo and will feature unique variations
We recommend cleaning with mild soap and soft sponge, and wiping dry with a cloth immediately after washing

Bamboo Fish Spoon

I am a Toothpick Holder. With great highs come great lows. Much like the ocean’s tide, I bring relief in waves.

Curator's Notes

The wavy base cut in the bottom interior of this holder creates an undulation when toothpicks are packed into it. A beautiful, subtle surprise found in such a simple household object!
“Kime” means texture or wood grain in Japanese and each Kime product features the unique qualities of the wood it is made from. The sleek shapes and smooth texture highlight the outstanding skill of the craftsmen who make each piece in Asahikawa, Japan.

Toothpick Holder was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Dreamy Person Inc.

Designer: Mikiya Kobayashi

Specifications

Dimensions: 1.3” (w) x 1.3” (l) x 2.3” (h) or 34mm (w) x 34mm (l) x 58mm (h)

Weight: 0.4 oz or 11 g

Materials: Maple or Walnut or Cherry

Details

Made in Asahikawa, Hokkaido
The bottom of the interior is undulated allowing the toothpicks to rest in a wave-like formation
Can hold toothpicks, q-tips or other small household objects
Each piece features a unique wood grain and distinct smooth texture

Toothpick Holder

I am a Hanging Frame '300'. You can call me a wallflower, I’m happy to be one. I do not take part but I understand that if I weren’t here hanging out, the world would be bland.

Curator's Notes

I’ve always liked the idea of flowers as a form of decoration in the home and found it fascinating that with the Hanging Frame, one can actually display flowers against a wall. This wall hanging frame can hold dried flowers or leaves to enjoy their beauty for a prolonged time. Two panes of glass slot within a groove in the larger exterior frame - the panes sandwich together to hold in place a single dried leaf, an assortment of flowers and other mementos like photographs and precious keepsakes.

Hanging Frame was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: 10¹² Terra

Designer: Daisuke Tsumanuma and Kenichi Yamada

Specifications

Dimensions:
2.4” (w) x 11.8” (l) x 11.8” (h) or 60mm (w) x 300mm (l) x 300mm (h)

Weight:
6.2 lbs or 2.8 kg

Materials:
Glass and Steel

Details

Handmade in Japan
Blackened steel edges
Includes two panes of glass that easily slide into grooves within the frame
Can be hung using two rings featured at the top of the frame
Dried leaves shown in image are not included

Hanging Frame - '300' (out Of Stock)

I am the “Evening” Throw Blanket by Nalata Nalata. Cool nights, brisk mornings, frigid afternoons. Whatever weather the day may bring I’m a tried-and-true, dyed-in-the-wool cozy friend… Always by one’s side to provide warmth and comfort.

Curator's Notes

With our new series of 100% wool blankets, we sought out to add cozy appeal to an everyday item so closely tied with comfort and rest. Alluding to the hours of the day, our “Sunrise to Sunset” range of colours was carefully selected to suit any mood of the day. Each all-natural blanket was finished with a classic blanket stitch fit for a lifelong home staple.

Wool Throw Blanket was designed by Nalata Nalata

Designer/Maker

Designer: Nalata Nalata

Specifications

Dimensions:

48” x 60” or 1,219mm x 1,524mm

Weight:

2.05 lbs or 0.93 kg

Materials:
100% Virgin Wool

Details

Made in Canada
Wash in cool to warm water, mild soap lay flat to dry
Shape while still wet
Do not put in dryer
Wool is a natural product and each blanket has unique dimensions that may vary slightly
Navy twill weave and natural white blanket stitching

Wool Throw Blanket - "evening"

Throws

I am a Yellow and Pink Glass Bowl. There’s nothing I like more than a big bowl of color in the morning.

Curator's Notes

The shape of the bowl is reduced so its really all about the eye catching colors. I love how the two colors bleed into each other - a magical effect when applied to a material like translucent mouth blown glass.

Glass Bowl was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Designer: Simplicity

Specifications

Dimensions:
5.9" (w) x 5.9" (l) x 2.5" (h) or 150mm (w) x 150mm (l) x 64mm (h)

Weight:
11.3 oz or 320g

Materials:
Glass

Details

Handmade in Japan
Interior is glossy
Exterior is frosted
Features a thin, lightly handpainted rim
Each bowl is slightly different as it is individually hand blown
Non heat-resistant
Do not place in dishwasher, oven or microwave
Wash with a soft sponge after each use

Glass Bowl - Yellow And Pink

I am a Santoku Knife. You can say I’m “all-purpose” but truthfully, my main purpose in life is to help others.

Curator's Notes

Every household needs an all-purpose knife! The Santoku knife is appropriate for all kinds of food preparation and ideal for meat, fish and vegetables. The Ambai cutting knives fit comfortably in the hand and feature high-performance cutting blades made by a renowned stainless steel blade manufacturer in the Gifu prefecture of Japan.

Santoku Knife was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Ambai

Designer: Makoto Koizumi

Specifications

Dimensions:
11.6" (l) or 29.5 cm (l)
Blade length: 6.7" (l) or 17 cm (l)

Weight:

5 oz or 142 g

Materials:
Laminated wood, Stainless steel

Details

Made in Japan
The Santoku Knife is a multi-purpose knife for cutting meat, fish or vegetables
Blade has the Ambai logo
The handle has an easy-to-grip shape
We recommend hand washing and using a non-metallic, soft sponge to wash the blade
Wipe the blade and wood handle dry after washing
Sharpen the blade when necessary, approximately once a month

Santoku Knife

I am a linden wood bowl. I’m perfect for cereals, soups, stews, oatmeal, snacks, porridge and rice. Also, good for small fruits like cherries and grapes.

Curator's Notes

Light, natural wooden bowls for everyday use. They are a great alternative to more commonly used ceramic bowls. Each piece is food safe and very durable. "Cara" is a series of egg-shaped tablewares making the most of the warmth of wood as a material and Japanese thin-wood-curving techniques. The curvatures of the pieces are meant to mimic the egg so as to fit gently within your hands.
Cara Bowl was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Takahashi Kougei
Designer: Rina Ono

Specifications

Dimensions: 6.25” (w) x 6.25” (l) x 2” (h) or 159mm (w) x 159mm (l) x 51mm (h)
Weight: 0.35 lbs or 0.15 kg
Materials: Linden Wood

Details

Made in Japan
Also available in the Cara Dinner Set here

Linden wood sourced from Hokkaido, Japan
This product has a food-grade polyurethane coating. This coating acts as a barrier to help protect the wood as is food safe.
Very new Cara products may have some trace remainder of the polyurethane coating odor. Before using the cup for the first time, leave tea leaves or coffee grounds inside the cup for several hours to remove any coating odor.
Avoid using microwave and dish washing machine as coating may get cracked
Don't soak it in the water for a long period of time
Use a thinner dish detergent with a sponge to wash, rinse with warm water, then wipe with soft cloth and let it dry well

Cara Bowl

I am a Sgraffito Square Plate. A lotus grows out of mud like ceramic clay is sourced from the soil - A beauty so deep that is planted within the soul.

Curator's Notes

Momoko Otani achieves the perfect balance of decoration and simplicity with her all white sgraffito serving dishes. At once peaking interest with intricate lotus etchings while remaining quiet with a white on white palette. The pieces remain elegant backgrounds for serving elaborate dishes, dessert or a colourful selection of fruit.

Sgraffito is derived from the Italian word “scratch”. It is a technique of applying layers of slip onto a ceramic form and, while semi-dry, removing and etching certain areas to create a contrasting surface design. Momoko’s works are inspired by her love of lotuses and banana leaves. Her white sgraffito series display lotus buds and petals in bloom. Each piece is one-of-a-kind, featuring unique variations. They simply brighten up your day. Ceramics that will be cherished for a lifetime, knowing so many loving hours were put into the making of them!

Sgraffito Square Plate was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Momoko Otani

Designer: Momoko Otani

Specifications

Dimensions:
9.3” (w) x 9.3” (l) x 0.5” (h) or 235mm (w) x 235mm (l) x 13mm (h)

Weight:

2.3 lb or 1.0 kg

Materials:
Ceramic

Details

Handmade in Shigaraki, Japan
Features a raised lotus flower sgraffito design in white slip against a white ceramic form
Food-safe glazed surface
We recommend hand washing only

Suitable for everyday use and décor

Because the piece is handmade, slight size, colour and sgraffito design variations occur

Sgraffito Square Plate (out Of Stock)

I am a Wolf Embroidered Eye Brooch. Look into my eyes and see how badly I want it.

Curator's Notes

I just love how these exist in the world and all of Yacmii's tiny, intricate creations! Aptly described as 'sculpture embroidery' for their 3-D expressions, Yacmii uses premium silk and cotton thread made in Kyoto to stitch eace piece slowly, creating a stereoscopic life-like effect. Her works are inspired by nature but most often by animals like these charming pins that call out your inner spirit animal.

Embroidered Eye Brooch was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Yacmii

Specifications

Dimensions:
Each brooch is handmade therefore will vary slightly in size.
0.6” (w) x 1.5” (l) x 0.4” (h) or 14mm (w) x 38mm (l) x 11mm (h)

Weight:
0.1 oz or 3 g

Materials:
Silk thread, Cotton thread, Leather, Brass

Details

Made in Japan
Embroidery work is stitched to a leather backing
Hinged brass safety clasp pin at the back
There will be unique variations in the size and shape of each brooch

Embroidered Eye Brooch - Wolf

I am a Snow Etched Deep Bowl. I'm not as cold as I sound. I was made with love and warmth, hand-etched with a snow pattern, one tiny dot at a time.

Curator's Notes

Each little dot is hand etched creating an irregular allover print like snowflakes on glass. We particularly like this signature factory zoomer pattern because there is something nice about such a subtle design detail. Its almost as if the glass is clear but upon closer inspection, the realization that so much work went into hand-etching hundreds of dots sets in, making eating or drinking from a snow etched piece more enjoyable.

Snow Etched Deep Bowl was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: factory zoomer

Designer: Kazumi Tsuji

Specifications

Dimensions: 5.4” (dia) x 3.2" (h) or 13.7cm (dia) x 7.9cm (h)

Weight: 7.9 oz or 224 g

Materials: Glass

Details

Handmade in Kanazawa, Japan
Mouth-blown
Features hand-etched dots all over the exterior surface
Dots are irregular in shape and size
This bowl is ideal for party snacks or pasta
Each glass has handmade characteristics that are unique. Slight variations in form, pattern may occur
Hand wash recommended

Snow Etched Deep Bowl (out Of Stock)

I am a customizable Blackened Brass Name Plaque. They made an irrevocable decision in the name of Brass, then they inked on the dotted line.

Curator's Notes

Futagami-san made us two plaques when he debuted the Matureware product line for the first time May 2016 at an exhibition at Nalata Nalata. One was embossed and the other was debossed with our handwritten logo. Till this day, I still can't decide which one I like more.
I like the weight and the quality of the plaques. It resonates a permanency when displayed and that's why they are often used as house names plaques or house numbers plates in Japan. I just can't wait for the day I can use one in front of my home.
Ihada Brass Plaque was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Futagami

Designer: Yamazaki Yoshiki and Oji Masanori

Specifications

Dimensions:
Rectangle: 9.4” (w) x 5.9” (l) x 0.5" (h) or 240mm (w) x 150mm (l) x 13.5mm (h)
Square: 7.1” (w) x 7.1” (l) x 0.5" (h) or 180mm (w) x 180mm (l) x 13.5mm (h)
Thin Rectangle: 10.6” (w) x 2.2” (l) x 0.5" (h) or 270mm (w) x 55mm (l) x 13.5mm (h)

Weight:
Rectangle: 4.0 lbs or 1.8 kg
Square: 3.7 lbs or 1.7 kg
Thin Rectangle: 4.2 lbs or 0.9 kg

Materials: Brass

Details

Made to order item with approximately a 3-4 weeks lead time
Made in Japan
Three sizes of plates are available in a Ihada brass or a blacken brass finish
Standard plaques are made with the Mincho (serif) and Gothic (san serif) typeface. Any other typefaces requested will be processed as a custom order. Please contact for all special order quotes.
One or two rows of text is possible for both the rectangle and square orientation. One row of text is possible for the thin rectangle orientation.
A maximum of 8 letter characters per row. Fees applies to each additional letter character per row on standard plaques.
Name plates can be made on a special order basis with custom logos, symbols and typefaces as seen in the featured image. Please contact for all special order quotes.
All plaques can be made embossed or debossed.
Order includes bolts for installation that insert at the back of the plate
Plate must be mounted to the second surface (wall, fence, door) by drilling into the surface
Features a subtle rough surface texture due to the sand molds used in the casting process
After an order is placed, Nalata Nalata will contact you immediately to confirm all details and provide an expected ETA for delivery.