I am a Cheese Board. I know this sounds cheesy, so I’m going to stop right here.

Curator's Notes

This board is an excellent size for small gatherings or a solo charcuterie platter. The carved grooves around the circumference of the board demonstrate the high level of skill in the craftsmanship of Ishikawa based artisans. Pairs nicely with the Azmaya Cheese Knife found here.

Cheese Board was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Designer: Azmaya

Maker: Masahiko Oguri and Yamaichi

Specifications

Dimensions: 5.7" (w) x 11.9” (l) x 0.6" (h) or 145mm (w) x 302mm (l) x 16mm (h)

Weight: 10 oz or 283 g

Materials: Cherry Wood and Walnut Oil

Details

Made in Japan
Handcrafted
Features a hole on the handle used for hanging
The side of the board’s handle bears the Azmaya logo
We recommend hand washing

Dry with a cloth immediately after washing

Do not soak in water for long periods of time

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

Cheese Board

Title

Cheese Boards & Accessories

I am a Partridge Cast Iron Ornament. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence. Look up and have faith.

Curator's Notes

This piece is intriguing because it’s in that gray zone between art and design. Many see that intersection between the two as different disciplines but when I look at Miya’s cast iron ornaments, I can’t help but think that they defy classic boundaries.

Cast Iron Ornament was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Kamasada

Designer: Nobuho Miya

Specifications

Dimensions:
Including wood display base: 2.6” (w) x 2.3” (l) x 7.5” (h) or 6.6cm (w) x 5.7cm (l) x 19cm (h)
Wood display base: 2.3"(w) x 2.3"(l) or 5.7cm (w) x 5.7cm(l)

Weight:
1.3 lbs or 0.6 kg

Materials:
Nambu Tekki Cast Iron, Wood

Details

Made in Japan
Hand-forged
Sculpture slots into a wood display base
Lacquered with a urushi glaze that prevents rust

Cast Iron Ornament - Partridge

Home & Furniture

I am Wave Cast Iron Bookends. The world is running out of books like it’s running out of water. It’s time to make some waves for change.

Curator's Notes

I like the unusual shape of these bookends. They are interesting from all angles. From the front the lines are thin and elegant and from the sides they look wide and substantial.

Wave Cast Iron Bookends was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Designer: Rikuchou Ogasawara

Specifications

Dimensions:
Each: 3.4” (w) x 3.4” (l) x 6.6” (h) or 86mm (w) x 86mm (l) x 168mm (h)

Weight:
Each: 5.3 lbs or 2.4 kg

Materials: Cast Iron

Details

Made in Japan
Two bookends included
Created in the Iwate region with traditional cast iron techniques
Undersides of bottom are covered with felt to prevent sliding

Wave Cast Iron Bookends

Bookends

I am the “Morning” Queen 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 Queen Blanket was designed by Nalata Nalata

Designer/Maker

Designer: Nalata Nalata

Specifications

Dimensions:
76” x 104” or 1930mm x 2642mm

Weight:
5.28 lbs or 2.39 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
Natural white twill weave and black blanket stitching

Wool Queen Blanket - "morning" (out Of Stock)

Home Decor

I am a Chair. Nothing brings people together like fine food, tea and good seats.

Curator's Notes

The simple shape of this chair has echoes of mid-century modern design, but the traditional joinery techniques, dark fuki-urushi finish, and slightly lower height make it distinctively Japanese. Details like the subtly tapered legs, the circular scoop of the seat, and the gentle curve of the backrest are in perfect balance, and not a nail nor screw disturbs the harmony of its form. The hand-lacquered wood is deceptively silken to the touch – in fact, fuki-urushi finish is highly durable and scratch-resistant. The warm, timeless presence of this chair will only develop with use and age.

Ibazen Chair was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Takahito Iba

Designer: Ibazen

Specifications

Dimensions:

16.9” (w) x 20.0 (l) x 28.3” (h) or 43cm (w) x 50cm (l) x 72cm (h)
Seat height: 16.1" (h) or 41cm (h)

Weight: 10 lbs or 4.5 kg

Materials: Japanese walnut (seat and back), Oak (legs)

Details

Made in Japan "Fuki-Urushi", wipe lacquer finish
Crafted and finished by hand
Concave seat surface
Gently curved back rest
All wood construction

Chair

Chairs

I am Paper Vase No.2. As delicate as a flower, as steady as a tree.

Curator's Notes

Rina Ono creates another brilliant design made of paper. Place over a simple glass or plastic bottle to instantly transform it into a beautiful vase. This washi paper vase is made in the Gifu region of Japan known for its durable handmade washi paper made of mulberry bark. The beauty is in how the paper expands into forms that organically find their resting point in asymmetrical positions.

Paper Vase was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Hayashi Kougei

Designer: Rina Ono

Specifications

Dimensions: 6.5” (dia) x 9.8” (h) or 166mm (dia) x 250mm (h)

Weight: 3 oz or 85 g

Materials: Washi (Japanese paper)

Details

Made in Japan
Includes expandable vase only
Vases have an open bottom for placing over a recycled plastic bottle or glass to hold fresh cut flowers in water
Vases can be lightly misted with water when expanded to help keep desired form

Comes collapsed in a small thin box

Paper Vase No.2

Vases

I am a rice scoop. Rice beware. Swooping in for a scoop before you can get away.

Curator's Notes

A rice scoop is one of those handy tools for daily life that is helpful to have in the kitchen. We particularly love this scoop based on a Japanese “shamoji”. Traditional shamoji wood scoops are used to stir, serve and add vinegar to sushi rice. When frequently dipped in water, the wood prevents rice grains from sticking to the spoon while the spoons soft edges prevent cutting the rice grains. The wood doesn’t scratch pots or rice cookers like most metal spoons as an added bonus.

Rice Scoop was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Designer: Azmaya

Maker: Kuramoto Scoop Factory

Specifications

Dimensions: 2.5” (w) x 8.6” (l) x 0.6” (h) or 64mm (w) x 218mm (l) x 15mm (h)

Weight: 1.2 oz or 34 g

Materials: Birch Wood

Details

Made in Hiroshima, Japan
Azmaya logo branded on handle
Flat paddle with a slight curve where handle meets the scoop
Smooth finish with food safe glaze

Rice Scoop

I am a Natsume Chiisaki-Hanaire Vase. I love all the guests that occupy my space. Although they are fleeting, their temporary presence is always appreciated.

Curator's Notes

In the art of Japanese flower arrangement, vases are specifically chosen to enhance the flowers in which they hold. We love how these vases are miniature interpretations of 6 classical Japanese vessels, allowing many to appreciate seasonal flowers with less commitment! Collect all six and the arrangements are endless! These vases are not waterproof and therefore should not be filled with water. They are designed in a way to appreciate the fleeting beauty of a single sprig or small berry-bearing twig. All six shapes available here.

Natsume Chiisaki-Hanaire Vase was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Akarino-Tane

Designer: Hiroyuki Inoue

Specifications

Dimensions: 1.3” (dia) x 1.6” (h), 0.1" (vent) or 33mm (dia) x 40mm (h), 3.5mm (vent)

Weight: 1.5 oz or 43 gr

Materials: Maple

Details

Handmade in Hokkaido, Japan
Urethane finish
Do not pour water inside
Vases are not waterproof
All six shapes available here

Chiisaki Hanaire Mini Vase - Natsume

I am a n Enzo Tea Cup. Hot tea in a cup will fix you right up!

Curator's Notes

The simple color and form of this tea cup make the perfect backdrop for you to admire the deep and nuanced shades of tea—something that can be overlooked, but is a wonderful part of the experience, along with aroma and flavor. The smaller size helps to prevent your tea from growing cold and encourages you to savor each sip. The cup sits with a low profile and quiet presence that emanates the spirit of its name. Enzo, taken from the Japanese word ensō , stands for the Zen principles of simplicity and enlightenment. After a cup of tea in this serene, minimal vessel, you might feel it, too! The Enzo Tea C up was designed to pair with the Enzo Tea Pot, but looks wonderful alone, and also works well to hold water or sake.

Enzo Teacup was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Kihara

Designer: Makoto Koizumi

Specifications

Dimensions:

3.5 ” (w) x 3.5 ” (l) x 2.3 ” (h) or 89 mm (w) x 89 mm (l) x 58 mm (h)

Weight:

4.6 oz or 13 0 gr

Materials:

Porcelain

Details

Made in Japan

Designed to be paired with Enzo teapot, available here

Not dishwasher safe
Not microwave safe
Hand wash with soft sponge and mild soap, and dry components separately

Enzo Teacup

Tea Cups

I am a Binchotan Charcoal Eye Mask. You can rest your eyes while I stand guard so sweet dreams, sleep tight, don’t let the bed bugs bite!

Curator's Notes

Binchotan! Otherwise known as charcoal, this ancient material has amazing purifying abilities. We often wonder why it hasn’t been used in bath and body products sooner. Morihata has discovered the wonders of the ingredient and ran with it, creating a line of products with charcoal at it’s core. This line features scrubs, soaps, sponges and eye masks with natural materials and one super ingredient: charcoal. Clearly we love binchotan, and Morihata even more, for having our entire bath and body needs covered! Use this eye mask to relax, travel, sleep or meditate. The four-layer structure of the mask is the real secret to this innovative product. Inserted under soft jersey and terrycloth padding is a sheet of binchotan charcoal that emits far infrared rays and promotes better blood circulation. The eye muscles relax while you get a good night's rest!

Binchotan Charcoal Eye Mask was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Morihata

Specifications

Dimensions: 7.3” (w) x 3.5” (l)  or 184mm (w) x 89mm (l)

Weight: 0.8 oz or 23 g

Materials: Cotton, polyester, charcoal, velcro

Details

Made in Japan
A sheet of binchotan charcoal is layered under soft cotton jersey to promote better blood circulation around the eye muscles
Adjustable velcro and elastic straps
Soft black terrycloth padding rests on nose bridge and cheeks
Features 1/4" cotton binding around entire mask

Binchotan Charcoal Eye Mask

I am a Bamboo Matcha Tea Ladle. You miss 100% of the matcha you don’t scoop.

Curator's Notes

‘Chashaku’ means bamboo tea ladle. A regular teaspoon will do just fine for measuring powdered matcha but this type of ladle is used to make scooping deep inside cylindrical tea containers easier and allows you to adjust the amount of powder easier as well. For more intense or weaker matcha tea, more or less scoops may be added in small intervals. Two heaping scoops is the general rule for one serving of matcha tea but I like to add a third scoop for a strong cup.

Bamboo Matcha Tea Ladle was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Kohchosai Kosuga

Specifications

Dimensions: 0.4” (w) x 7.1” (l) x 0.9" (h) or 10mm (w) x 181mm (l) x 22mm (h)

Weight: 0.3 oz or 9 g

Materials: Bamboo

Details

Handmade in Kyoto, Japan
Used for scooping matcha tea powder
Each ladle is made from a single piece of raw bamboo and will feature unique variations
Clean matcha off ladle after each use using a soft cloth

Bamboo Matcha Tea Ladle

Ladles

I am a Crow Bottle Opener. I'm a bird with no wings, how do you expect me not to drink my life away?

Curator's Notes

You know what? For the longest time I was trying to open bottles with the beak of this crow bottle opener and I would just be struggling and embarrassing myself. Then I figured out it’s not the beak, its actually the back part of it that was designed to open bottles! Anyways – I don’t drink a lot of beers but when I do, I use this bottle opener and when I’m not opening bottles with it, it sits on a mantle with a few other collectibles. On another note, I’m not sure why this bottle opener is called a crow because it looks more like a toucan to me. Regardless, it’s really beautiful.

Crow Bottle Opener was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Designer: Tadahiro Baba

Specifications

Dimensions:
Short: 4.3” (w) x 1.5” (l) x 1.4” (h) or 108mm (w) x 38mm (l) x 35mm (h)
Tall: 3.4" (w) x 3.5” (l) x 2.3” (h) or 86mm (w) x 89mm (l) x 57mm (h)
Weight:
Short: 3.2 oz or 91 g
Tall: 3.3 oz or 94 g
Materials:
Cast Iron

Details

Made in Japan
Traditional Japanese Nambu Tekki
Back side is used as the bottle opener, not the beak
The beak fits comfortably in the hand

Crow Bottle Opener

Size

Bar Tools

I am a Rhombus 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: 6.6” (w) x 6.6” (l) x 7.5" (h) or 167mm (w) x 167mm (l) x 190mm (h)

Weight: 3 oz or 85 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 - Rhombus

Pendant Lights

I am Diamond Washi Paper Lantern. I may not be as hard as my precious stone counterpart, but I shine just as bright.

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.

Hishi Washi Paper Lantern was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Hayashi Kougei

Designer: Rina Ono

Specifications

Dimensions: 6.8” (w) x 6.8” (l) x 6.8" (h) or 25mm (w) x 25mm (l) x 25mm (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

Washi Paper Lantern - Hishi (diamond)

I am a Butter Spreader. Spread butter to all corners of the bread and love to all corners of the world.

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 6.3” (l) x 0.2” (h) or
15mm (w) x 160mm (l) x 3mm (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 spreader is individually handcrafted by a solo artisan. Contact us for lead times at 

Forged Butter Spreader

I am a Mortar and Pestle. Friction and pressure are everywhere. Why not channel it into something tasty?

Curator's Notes

A mortar and pestle is such an essential tool, and yet I've had trouble finding one that I really like. It needs to have the right balance between rough and smooth, fit nicely in the hand, and be easy to use. This one designed by Makoto Koizumi has all the features I was looking for, plus ones I didn't know I was looking for! A series of fine lines in a flower-like pattern (the traditional kushi-no-me) forms the texture against which the pestle grinds ingredients to a paste. The wooden pestle is comfortable to hold, and has both a rounded and blunt end for grinding vs. crushing. Such a great kitchen tool that you will constantly reach for! Doesn't hurt that it might end up being one of the most handsome objects in your house.

Mortar and Pestle was curated by A ng élique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Kihara

Designer: Makoto Koizumi

Specifications

Dimensions:

Mortar:

3.9" (w) x 3.9" (l) x 1.4" (h) or 100mm (w) x 100mm (l) x 350mm (h)

Pestle:

1.0" (w) x 1.0" (l) x 4.0" (h) or 25mm (w) x 25mm (l) x 101mm (h)

Weight:

7.7 oz or 218 g

Materials:

Porcelain, Wood

Details

Made in Japan

Based on a traditional Japanese "suribachi"
Inside is unglazed and features the "kushi-no-me" pattern that grinds down ingredients
Both ends of the pestle can be used depending on desired consistency of end product
Hand wash with soft sponge and mild soap, and wipe to dry

Mortar And Pestle

Mortars & Pestles

I am a Porcelain Butter Case. Butter, you are safe with me as long as my lid is closed. After that, I can’t make any promises.

Curator's Notes

This butter case both stores and serves butter, going easily from the refrigerator to your tabletop. White and basic, its minimal design fits in well with most homes. Nothing hits the spot like a slice of crusty bread with a slab of butter on it, and this butter case only adds to the experience.

Porcelain Butter Case was curated by A ng élique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Kihara

Designer: Makoto Koizumi

Specifications

Dimensions:

3.0 ” (w) x 6.1” (l) x 2.0 ” (h) or 76 mm (w) x 154mm (l) x 5 1 mm (h)

Weight:

15 oz or 437 g

Materials:

Porcelain

Details

Made in Japan

Ideal for approximately 8-10 oz or a half brick butter
Lid sits tightly on the case due to the weight of porcelain
Can be placed in the refrigerator
Not dishwasher safe
Hand wash with soft sponge and mild soap, and wipe to dry

Porcelain Butter Case

I am a Kujira Whale Knife. Of all the mammals in the deep blue sea, I am the sharpest there ever will be.

Curator's Notes

This knife gains its namesake from the largest mammals of the sea - whales, or kujira in Japanese. The Kujira Knife has a wonderful origin story that begins with blacksmith, Toru Yamashita. Inspired to create a knife that is at once functional and safe for a child to use for a simple task like sharpening a pencil, Mr. Yamashita forged the tip of the knife in a rounded shape. With a large head and thinner handle, the knife resembled a Sperm whale, and thus the first knife from the Kujira Knife collection was born. The collection now comprises a whole family of whales that include six different forms of different species like the bryde’s, mink and fin whale. Although they can still be used to sharpen pencils, they can also be used as utility knives or, as we like to use them, for chopping mint during cocktail preparations.

Kujira Whale Knife was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Designer: Toru Yamashita

Specifications

Dimensions: 1.6" (w) x 6.7" (l) x 0.1" (h) or 40mm (w) x 170mm (l) x 3mm (h)

Weight: 2.5 oz or 71 g

Materials: Iron

Details

Made in Tosa, Japan - a city in the Kōchi prefecture that faces the Pacific Ocean
Hand-forged

The word ‘Tosa’ and a 'wave' motif is embossed on the knife

Kujira Knife - Mink Whale

I am Paper Vase No.2. As delicate as a flower, as steady as a tree.

Curator's Notes

Rina Ono creates another brilliant design made of paper. Place over a simple glass or plastic bottle to instantly transform it into a beautiful vase. This washi paper vase is made in the Gifu region of Japan known for its durable handmade washi paper made of mulberry bark. The beauty is in how the paper expands into forms that organically find their resting point in asymmetrical positions.

Paper Vase was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Hayashi Kougei

Designer: Rina Ono

Specifications

Dimensions: 6.5” (dia) x 7.3” (h) or 166mm (dia) x 185mm (h)

Weight: 3 oz or 85 g

Materials: Washi (Japanese paper)

Details

Made in Japan
Includes expandable vase only
Vases have an open bottom for placing over a recycled plastic bottle or glass to hold fresh cut flowers in water
Vases can be lightly misted with water when expanded to help keep desired form

Comes collapsed in a small thin box

Paper Vase No.1

I am a Binchotan Scrub Towel. I don’t mind getting down and scrubbing, so you just sit back and relax.

Curator's Notes

Binchotan! Otherwise known as charcoal, this ancient material has amazing purifying abilities. We often wonder why it hasn’t been used in bath and body products sooner. Morihata has discovered the wonders of the ingredient and ran with it, creating a line of products with charcoal at it’s core. This line features scrubs, soaps, sponges and eye masks with natural materials and one super ingredient: charcoal. Clearly we love binchotan, and Morihata even more, for having our entire bath and body needs covered! Use this gauze-like charcoal blended cloth made with gentle exfoliating fibers to refresh and revitalize the skin. Charcoal is naturally odour absorbant and removes toxins and excess oil from the skin making this ideal for the bath.

Binchotan Charcoal Scrub Towel was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Morihata

Specifications

Dimensions: 8.3” (w) x 40” (l)  or 216mm (w) x 1016mm (l)

Weight: 1.9 oz or 54 g

Materials: Cotton, polyester, charcoal

Details

Made in Japan
Ultrafine binchotan charcoal powder is blended into high-performance polyester fiber and woven together with a soft cotton material
Cotton 45%, Polyester 45%
Handwash only with gentle detergent
Do not use bleach

Binchotan Charcoal Scrub Towel

I am a Forged Tea Fork. When you come to a fork in the road, take it... especially when the fork has a pastry on it.

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 5.6” (l) x 0.4” (h) or
15mm (w) x 143mm (l) x 11mm (h)

Weight:

0.5 oz or 14 g

Materials:
Stainless Steel

Details

Made in Gifu, Japan
Tea Fork has three tines
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 fork is individually handcrafted by a solo artisan. Contact us for lead times at 

Forged Tea Fork

I am a Tatami patterned Tenegui Cloth. I come in one format that can be used for this and that, but certainly can’t be used as a tatami mat.

Curator's Notes

Tenugui cloths are one of Japan’s old traditions but when we first received one as a gift, we had a lot of questions about this seemingly plain cotton cloth... Why are the ends frayed? What is it used for? Why the rectangular shape? A friend explained that tenuguis are a multipurpose cloth used for decorating, wrapping gifts, carrying items, wiping and drying hands. They can also be used as handkerchiefs, napkins, bandanas or kitchen cloths. The edges are frayed to allow quicker drying and are antiseptic as bacteria will not be as prone to build up as it would if the cloth had seams.
Once we discovered their versatility, we began to appreciate the meaning behind such a simple household object. We now have a large collection of tenuguis on rotation in our home and often give them as souvenirs when we return from Japan. Tenuguis by Kamawanu are handcrafted using traditional techniques. The labour-intensive process can be seen in this video.

Tatami Tenugui Cloth was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Kamawanu

Designer: Makoto Koizumi

Specifications

Dimensions: 13” x 35” or 33cm x 90m

Weight: 2 oz or 57 gr

Materials: 100% Cotton

Details

Made in Japan
Part of a special collaboration series with designer Makoto Koizumi
No seams
Ends are left raw
Selvage-edged sides
Ends will fray with time and stop at around 1cm of fraying
Cloth will soften with each wash
Tenugui are dyed by hand and variations in the dye color or pattern may occur
Color fading is expected over time and can be reduced by hand washing
Multi-purpose function

Tenugui Cloth - Special Edition 'tatami'

I am a Walnut wood waste basket. Fill me up with your litter and I won’t complain. I’m low maintenance and always at your disposal.
Curator's Notes

Trash containers are often hidden or an after-thought as a product, kept far away from public sight. We like the idea that a frequently neglected household item can also be beautiful and worthy of display.

Walnut Paper Waste Basket was curated by Stevenson Aung
Designer/Maker

Maker: Saito Wood Co.

Designer: Isamu Saito

Specifications

Dimensions:
Large: 11” (w) x 11” (l) x 16” (h) or 279mm (w) x 279mm (l) x 406mm (h)
Small: 10" (w) x 10" (l) x 12" (h) or 254mm (w) x 254mm (l) x 305 (h)

Weight:
Large: 1.84 lbs or 0.83 kg
Small: 1.30 lbs or 0.59 kg

Materials: Walnut wood veneer and plywood

Details

Made in Japan
Exposed plywood edges
Occasional oiling may be necessary to return luster

We recommend that you only dispose dry waste in the wastebasket

Paper Waste Basket - Walnut

Waste Baskets

I am a Yokan Desk Clock. What’s the point of being on time when you’re inappropriately dressed for the weather. Have no fear, I’ve got you covered.

Curator's Notes

We love the idea of this handsome 3 in 1 clock. It's so convenient to have the time and know the temperature and humidity levels all in one glance. The impeccably crafted solid wood and glass combination makes a real statement on a desk and always strikes up a conversation... "Did you see the latest hygrometer readings"?! Taking your temperature knowledge up a level, now that's something new.

Yokan Desk Clock was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Takata Lemnos Inc.

Designer: Yuichi Nara

Specifications

Dimensions:
2.13” (w) x 12” (l) x 4.25” (h) or
54mm (w) x 305mm (l) or 108mm(h)

Weight:
1.8 lbs or 0.82 kg

Materials:
Walnut and Glass

Details

Made in Japan
Solid walnut wood frame and glass face
Thermometer (Celsius), time and hygrometer (% humidity)
White printed on wood
Finished with a layer of plant oil
One AA battery included

Yokan Desk Clock

Desk Clocks

I am a Heishi Flower Vase. It doesn’t need to be a special occasion to show me some love. Fill me up with a bouquet and I’ll perk up any corner of your room.

Curator's Notes

These porcelain Jicon vases are great to display that one unexpected single rose from a special someone. Elegant and simple, they are also the perfect vessel for showing off small bouquets. A nice gift for Mom or collect all three shapes for a beautiful flower vase arrangement.

Heishi Flower Vase was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Jicon

Designer: Masanori Oji

Specifications

Dimensions: 2.5” (w) x 2.5” (l) x 7.5” (h) or 64mm (w) x 64mm (l) x 191mm (h)

Weight: 0.44 lbs or 0.20 kg

Materials: Porcelain

Details

Made in Japan
Debossed Jicon logo on the bottom surface
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)

Flower Vase - Heishi

I am a Butter Knife. Spread the love.

Curator's Notes

The elongated blade is sleek and elegant in silver plated brass. The blade is thin making it great for spreading. Setting something on the table as simple as a loaf of warm bread and fresh butter with a couple beautiful items like this butter knife makes the experience so much more enjoyable!

Butter Knife was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Futagami
Designer: Masanori Oji

Specifications

Dimensions: 0.6” (w) x 7.4” (l) x 0.2” (h) or 16mm (w) x 187mm (l) x 5mm (h)
Weight: 1.5oz or 46g
Materials: Brass, Silver

Details

Made in Japan
Silver plated heads are antibacterial
Crude casted brass surface ("Ihada") handles
Made from lead-free brass ideal for tableware
Molding in Takaoka City
Brass products gradually change their color over the course of many years due to oxidization
A camel colored patina on the handles is expected to develop within 5 years
A russet brown color patina is expected to develop at approximately 30 years
Hand washing is recommended
Individually packaged in a brown box
Includes a small polishing cloth that can be occasionally used to polish the piece back to it's original luster

Butter Knife

Flatware

I am a n Chestnut Wood Vase. Just like the flowers I hold, I'm a natural beauty.

Curator's Notes

A vase full of fresh flowers is a wonderful way to brighten the day, but we love smaller sizes that look good with just a single bloom or sprig. They’re more practical for daily use, and much easier to arrange. It was a joy to work with Makoto Koizumi to take the best of what we love about bud vases and create something special. The series is created with a variety of rare Japanese indigenous wood types. This wooden vase is elegant yet playful, and leans subtly to one side with the beauty of imperfection. The waves of wood grain play with the curves of the vase’s body to add movement to a piece that is dynamic by nature, its appearance seeming to alter as its flowers are refreshed, changing week by week.

Chestnut Wood Vase was created by Makoto Koizumi x Nalata Nalata

Designer/Maker

Designer: Makoto Koizumi

Specifications

Dimensions:
Small:

2.6 ” (w) x 2.6 ” (l) x 4 .0” (h) or 66 mm (w) x 66 mm (l) x 101 mm (h)
Large:

2. 75 ” (w) x 2. 75 ” (l) x 4. 9 ” (h) or 7 0mm (w) x 7 0mm (l) x 124 mm (h)

Weight:
Small: 2.7 oz or 76 gr
Large: 3.8 oz or 110 gr

Materials:
Chestnut Wood, Glass

Details

Made in Japan

Carved from a solid block of wood with traditional turning techniques

Each piece is one-of-a-kind, with natural variations in wood grain

Dimensions will vary slightly due to the hand-made nature of the piece

Glass vial fits perfectly in the vase’s opening to protect the wooden body and contain water

Also available in different wood types

Wood Vase - Chestnut

I am a Large Mayu Bamboo Flower Basket. You can decide what looks good with my curves but a bouquet of flowers is what I deserve.

Curator's Notes

These flower baskets are already beautiful in the way the fine bamboo strips dance in and out in a loose weave formation so they don’t need a large costly bouquet of flowers to create interest. A few unique branches or carefully selected stems are enough to create a gorgeous arrangement. The interior water vessel is provided but a flower frog holder can be purchased separately if you want more stability and balance for your arrangement.

Mayu Flower Basket was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Kohchosai Kosuga

Specifications

Dimensions: 9.1” (w) x 9.1” (l) x 6.3" (h) or 23cm (w) x 23cm (l) x 16cm (h)

Weight: 12 oz or 340 g

Materials: Bamboo, Lacquer

Details

Handmade in Kyoto, Japan
A clear glass vessel is included that can be placed in the center of the basket for water (it will not be the solid black vessel as pictured)
Features a bamboo handle on one side
Each piece is made from natural bamboo strips and will feature unique variations
To clean bamboo, wipe with a dry cloth

Mayu Flower Basket - Large

Baskets & Hampers

I am a facet rock cup. I was born out of a delicate porcelain ceramic. But don't be fooled by my pristine white exterior. I stand my ground, firm as a rock.

Curator's Notes

These artisanal handle free cups serve everything from water to wine. The shapes are glazed in a soft white with subtle antiquing (Fuchi-Sabi) on the free-formed rim. Facets run vertically down the straight sides for an added textural element, while enhancing the grip.
Facet Rock Cup was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Jicon
Designer: Masanori Oji

Specifications

Dimensions: 3.75” (w) x 3.75” (l) x 3.75” (h) or 95mm (w) x 95mm (l) x 95mm (h)

Weight: 0.59 lbs or 0.27 kg

Materials: Porcelain

Details

Made in Japan
Debossed Jicon logo on the bottom surface
Fuchi-sabi hand painted iron base accent on the rim
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)

Facet Rock Cup

Drink & Glassware

I am a Incense Case. If you carry me, I'll bring good scents to all our adventures.

Curator's Notes

Ryuji Mitani’s idea for this incense case came from an obsession with being able to burn incense anywhere he went. The container can hold multiple short incense sticks and is equipped with a brass insert stand in the cap that doubles as an ash catcher. The continuous grain pattern across the container and cap reveals that this entire holder was created from a single piece of wood.

Incense Case was curated by Stevenson Aung.

Designer/Maker

Maker: Ryuji Mitani

Designer: Ryuji Mitani

Specifications

Dimensions: 0.9” (w) x 0.9” (l) x 4.0" (h) or 2.3cm (w) x 2.3cm (l) x 10.2cm (h)

Weight: 0.6 oz or 17.0 g

Materials: Mountain cherry wood

Details

Handcrafted in Matsumoto, Japan
Made from a single piece of solid wood
Tight seal
Brass insert in the cap acts as an incense holder
Lid doubles as an ash catcher
Lightweight
Each piece is unique and will have variations in wood grain and texture