I am a Bath Pail with Handle. My arm extends to give you a hand while rinsing in a hot shower or bath. The only thing to worry about now, is wanting to stay in forever!

Curator's Notes

Traditional Japanese bath houses will most certainly have a bucket or pail like this one with a handle resting outside for the purpose of rinsing before jumping in the bath. It's a handy bathroom accessory that invigorates all the senses including smell with its incredible scent of hinoki.

Hinoki Bath Pail with Handle was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Azmaya

Specifications

Dimensions: 5.9” (w) x 5.9” (l) x 9.6” (h) or 150mm (w) x 150mm (l) x 243mm (h)

Weight: 11oz or 300g

Materials: Kiso Hinoki Cypress, Copper

Details

Made in Japan
Handcrafted
Uncoated wood to enhance the wood's natural properties
Handle helps with easy portability and pouring water during bath
Hinoki is naturally water and mold resistant
Wood is naturally fragrant with the scent of hinoki
Can be used in the shower or bath to contain water or to hold bath accessories
Grain of wood and color may vary
Copper rings will oxidize over time
We recommend resting the bucket upside down to drain water after use

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

Hinoki Bath Pail With Handle

Title

Home & Furniture

I am a Hand Treatment Brush. Pick me up and give me a hand. You won't believe the massage I'll grant.

Curator's Notes

This line of brushes is the ultimate luxury in body cleansing tools that we’ve come across. Their silky bristles are shockingly soft when you first touch them. The brushes make daily skin care routines special, high quality and relaxing – like bringing a spa to your very own home!
The hand treatment brush gives often neglected hands a gentle massage by stimulating blood circulation and lightly exfoliating. Use the badger and raccoon bristles on the double brush head on different areas of the hands to promote stimulation, from fingertips and nails, to palms and arms.

Hand Treatment Brush was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Mizuho Brush Company

Designer: Suvé

Specifications

Dimensions:
1.1” (w) x 2.2” (l) x 2.9” (h) or 28mm (w) x 55 mm (l) x 73mm (h)

Weight:
2.0 oz or 57 g

Materials:
Badger hair bristles, Racoon hair bristles, Walnut wood

Details

Made in Japan
Handcrafted in Kumano, a region that specializes in natural hair brushes
Use dry to stimulate and gently massage hands
Wood handle is cut at an angle allowing the brush to stand upright

Includes a usage manual with diagrams and care instructions

Directions: 1. Using the black bristles, brush each finger 3 times from knuckle to nail. 2. Brush 3 times times from web to wrist holding brush vertically. 3. Brush 5 times from wrist moving up wards to forearm using whole. 4. Stimulate and press each fingertip for 5 seconds using a rocking motion. 5. Apply pressure in the center of palm for 10 seconds using a rocking motion. 6. Brush in a circular motion from center of palm to outer edges using the brown bristles. 7. Dividing the hand into 3 zones, brush from wrist to fingertips 3 times in each zone using the whole brush.

Hand Treatment Brush

I am a Small Carved Flower Dish. I'll bloom for you every day, no matter what you serve in me!

Curator's Notes

The detailed floral design featured on this dish is based on one that the Imamura family has been using for generations to set their porcelain pieces apart. The original design has its source in the floral patterns of Arita ware, Japanese porcelain made in Saga Prefecture during the late 17th century. This rich history is a huge part of Jicon, who aims to bring the tradition of porcelain ware into modern times. The memorable floral design reimagined by designer Masanori Oji is hand-carved by the artisans of Jicon into white Amasuka Touseki clay. Complex lines and detailed embellishment are balanced by a simple dark rim and a semi-matte ash glaze.

Small Carved Flower Dish was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Jicon

Designer: Masanori Oji

Specifications

Dimensions: 6.1” (w) x 6.1” (l) x 1.6” (h) or 155mm (w) x 155mm (l) x 41mm (h)

Weight: 8.4 oz or 240 g

Materials: Porcelain

Details

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

Carved Flower Dish - Small

I am a Line Grid Washi Paper Card. I’m looking for a simple life. I’m going off the grid.

Curator's Notes

A unique card with distinct indigo dyed patterns is the perfect handmade touch to send along with greetings. We use gel pens to write on these cards because heavy ink pens tend to soak through. They don’t come with envelopes, but sometimes envelopes aren't needed anyway! I especially love the edges, how they are uneven and showcase the handmade nature of the handmade paper making process. It’s so interesting to see all the paper fibers and the use of different colored fibers to create the patterns. See all patterns here.

Washi Paper Card was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Chiaki Morita

Designer: Chiaki Morita

Specifications

Dimensions:
4” (w) x 6” (l) or 102mm (w) x 152mm (l)

Weight:
0.1 oz or 3 g

Materials:
Washi paper

Details

Made in Japan
The card has indigo dyed fibers embedded into plain white fibers to create a pattern
Back is blank (all white)
The edges of the cards are irregular
Each card is handmade and may feature irregularities in indigo colour and slight variations in pattern
Does not include envelope
See all patterns here

Washi Paper Card - Line Grid

I am the book White. I often lie unnoticed in the background, but once you read these pages, you won't be able to miss me at the fore.

Curator's Notes

During research for our own designs, we've developed a newfound appreciation for white and the different meanings it has within design. Kenya Hara's book on the subject is an important guide for us that helped expand the notion of white beyond color. In White , Hara explores how white relates to the origins of Japanese aesthetics. Drawing parallels to the fact that white is the absence of color, Hara puts forth the concepts of emptiness and the absolute void as the principles underlying Japanese design.

'White' was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Author: Kenya Hara

Specifications

Dimensions:
5.3" (w) x 7.8"(l) or 13.5cm (w) x 19.5cm (l)

Weight:
2 lb or 0.9 kg

Materials:
Paper

Details

Designed and written by Kenya Hara

80 pages
4 illustrations
Hardback

White

I am a Fish Scaler. It’s as simple as one, two, three. One stroke and off with their scales!

Curator's Notes

This commercial grade fish scaler is ideal for cleaning many types of fish from medium to coarse scales without damaging the flesh. It’s handle offers a firm comfortable grip and also features a hook to allow for convenient storing while not in use. With a heavy-duty stainless steel structure, this fish scaler is durable and will not rust.

Fish Scaler was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Nenohi Cutlery Co.

Specifications

Dimensions: 1.4” (w) x 9” (l) x 1” (h) or 36mm (w) x 229mm (l) x 25mm (h)

Weight: 0.3 lb or 0.1 kg

Materials: Stainless steel
Details

Made in Japan
Ideal for medium to coarse fish scales
Stainless steel

Fish Scaler

I am a Sukiyaki Pan. Stewed, and sweet, savoury and braised, these are words I hear most of my days.

Curator's Notes

Sukiyaki is a dish that is made with thinly sliced meat in a braised liquid. The pan is fitting for this type of dish as the smooth cast iron retains heat very well. The dish can be brought from the stovetop to a dinner table steaming and stay warm for a long period of time.

Sukiyaki Pan was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Designer: Rikuchou Ogasawara

Specifications

Dimensions:
9.5” (w) x 13.8” (l) x 2.3" (h) or 241mm (w) x 349mm (l) x 57mm (h)

Weight:
5.9 lbs or 2.7 kg

Materials:
Cast Iron

Details

Made in Japan
High heat retention
Features two side handles
Uncoated cast iron
Crafted using traditional iron casting techniques from the Iwate prefecture
Do not submerge in water for long periods of time
Can be used on a gas or induction stovetop and in the oven

Sukiyaki Pan

I am a Butter Warmer. Melt butter on a stovetop or whip up a favourite sauce and use me to serve. Whatever your desire, I'm a small kitchen tool that simply makes things butter.

Curator's Notes

It's always frustrating to have a pot that's too big for your needs so when we saw this warmer we knew it was the solution for our turkey side gravy. This adorable butter warmer can actually be used for much more than butter, and we like the idea of serving all kinds of sauces with it.

Butter Warmer was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Noda Horo

Specifications

Dimensions:
2.8” (w) x 7.1” (l) x 2.8" (h) or 7.1cm (w) x 18cm (w) x 7.2cm (h)

Volume:
7.5 fl oz or 220ml

Weight:
4.6 oz or 130 g

Materials:
Steel with enamel coating

Details

Made in Japan
Compatible with gas stove tops
Not compatible with electric or induction cooktops
Product can be used on electric or induction stove tops if placed on top of a grill net
Hand wash only with soft sponge

Due to the enamel manufacturing process, please note that the product may have minor irregularities in the coating of the enamel

Butter Warmer

I am a Dot Washi Paper Card. Let’s see now… where do we begin connecting the dots?

Curator's Notes

A unique card with distinct indigo dyed patterns is the perfect handmade touch to send along with greetings. We use gel pens to write on these cards because heavy ink pens tend to soak through. They don’t come with envelopes, but sometimes envelopes aren't needed anyway! I especially love the edges, how they are uneven and showcase the handmade nature of the handmade paper making process. It’s so interesting to see all the paper fibers and the use of different colored fibers to create the patterns. See all patterns here.

Washi Paper Card was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Chiaki Morita

Designer: Chiaki Morita

Specifications

Dimensions:
4” (w) x 6” (l) or 102mm (w) x 152mm (l)

Weight:
0.1 oz or 3 g

Materials:
Washi paper

Details

Made in Japan
The card has indigo dyed fibers embedded into plain white fibers to create a pattern
Back is blank (all white)
The edges of the cards are irregular
Each card is handmade and may feature irregularities in indigo colour and slight variations in pattern
Does not include envelope
See all patterns here

Washi Paper Card - Dots

I am a Two Spouted Cast Iron Pan. My love for your cooking is so overwhelming, I need two places to pour my heart out.

Curator's Notes

There's no need to get saucy about transferring dishes from the stove to the plate with this cast iron pan. The round shape and walls are great for cooking and stirring saucier dishes, while the two pour spouts on either sides make it easy to transfer food to a plate with either hand. The size of the pan is ideal for individual servings, making cooking and cleaning for one a breeze.

Two Spouted Cast Iron Pan was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Designer: Rikuchou Ogasawara

Specifications

Dimensions:
Pan with handle: 8.3” (w) x 12” (l) x 2.6” (h) or 211mm (w) x 305mm (l)  x 66mm (h)
Pan only: 8.3” (w) x 7.0” (l) x 1.9” (h) or 211mm (w) x 178mm (l)  x 49mm (h)

Weight:
2.4 lbs or 1.1 kg

Materials:
Cast Iron

Details

Made in Japan
Crafted using traditional iron casting techniques from the Iwate prefecture
Avoid submerging cast iron in water for long periods of time
Wooden cooking utensils are recommended to prevent scratching
Can be used on a gas or induction stovetop and in the oven
Must be seasoned all over before first use

Two Spouted Cast Iron Pan

I am a Card Wall Pocket. Alongside keeping organized, there’s a couple other things that help me stay relaxed - hanging out with my friends and helping others.

Curator's Notes

The Wall Pockets by Hender Scheme are such an original organizational system. Each one has a specific purpose, to hold business cards, pens or letters, and are just the right size for their functions. Hung as a group or individually, these premium leather pockets add infinite charm to an office or study.

Leather Wall Pocket was curated by Daniel Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Hender Scheme

Designer: Ryo Kashiwazaki

Specifications

Dimensions:
4.3” (w) x 2.8” (l) x 0.8" (h) or 108mm (w) x 70mm (l) x 19mm (h)

Weight:
1 oz or 25 g

Materials:
Cow Leather

Details

Made in Japan
This particular pocket is ideal for standard size business cards
Wall hanging
Cut and folded with interlocking tabs
Constructed with no stitching
Gold embossed Hender Scheme logo on back of pockets
Features a strip of leather that can be used to tack on a wall
Strips can also attach vertically to perforated tabs on the back of another pocket to create a joined system
Small scratches and imperfections can be expected from the raw cow hide
The leather will naturally develop a patina over time and showcase unique traces of everyday use

Leather Wall Pocket - Card

I am a Miso Donabe. Don-ya know how easy it is to make soup? Allow me to sho-yu!

Curator's Notes

We already love cooking rice and steaming in a donabe, so we were excited to see a new shape for making soups and stews! The porous clay produces heat evenly and holds heat for so long, allowing flavors to really build and sink in. The higher handles make it easy to carry the pot from the stove to the table, and the pot features a convenient spout. It's so easy to throw a bunch of ingredients into this pot and be rewarded with a rich and flavorful soup afterwards.

Miso Donabe was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Iga Mono

Specifications

Dimensions: 8.5" (w) x 11” (length with handles) x 6.3” (h) or 21.5cm (w) x 27.5cm (l) x 16cm (h)

Weight: 6.5 lbs or 3 kg

Materials: Ceramic

Details

Made in Japan
Suitable for soups and stews

Includes the pot, lid, and a clay trivet
English instructions included in the package
1600ml (about 6.5 cups) capacity
Gas stove top safe
Oven safe
Not suitable for induction stoves or microwaves
Not dishwasher safe
Hand washing recommended

Miso Donabe (out Of Stock)

I am a Noir Urushi Ice Cream Cup. Some might say I'm rather mysterious - dark as the night and cool like ice, but took a closer look, I've got the warmth of wood at my core.

Curator's Notes

The Noir Ice Cream Cup, a close relative to our original collaboration, the White Ice Cream Cup from a couple years ago, is a collaborative work with Ryuji Mitani. It was inspired by the concept of our exhibition entitled "A Deeper Dark". The black lacquered version offers such a beautiful contrast to the creamy tones of ice cream.

Noir Urushi Ice Cream Cup was created by Ryuji Mitani x Nalata Nalata

Designer/Maker

Maker: Ryuji Mitani

Designer: Ryuji Mitani x Nalata Nalata

Specifications

Dimensions:

3.4" (dia) x 3.8" (h) or 8.6cm (dia) x 9.5cm (h)

Weight:

1.0 oz or 28 g

Materials: Japanese Mountain Cherry, Black Urushi Lacquer

Details

Handcrafted in Matsumoto, Japan
Do not soak urushi lacquered pieces in water for prolonged periods
Each piece is unique and will have variations
Wash with a soft sponge and mild dish soap. Rinse with warm water
Wipe with a cloth and dry well
Urushi lacquer will become less glossy and more matte as time goes by
Not dishwasher safe
Ice Cream Spoon available here

Ice Cream Cup - Noir Urushi

Drink & Glassware

I am a Q. Prizm. If you ever feel like you have a glass roof over your head, remember that there’s always a way out.

Curator's Notes

The Q. Prizm stands tall with so much grace! The glass vase can hold a simple flower arrangement or a bouquet. It’s glass panels and steel edges intersect to create a fascinating form that simultaneously highlights the natural beauty of every stem.

Q. Prizm was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: 10¹² Terra

Designer: Daisuke Tsumanuma and Kenichi Yamada

Specifications

Dimensions:
3.4” (w) x 3.4” (l) x 9.6” (h) or 86mm (w) x 86mm (l) x 244mm (h)

Weight:
1.4 lbs or 0.65 kg

Materials:
Glass and Steel

Details

Made in Japan
Blackened steel edges
Avoid drastic temperature change
Hand washing is recommended

Q. Prizm

I am a Short Turner. I'll be the little jewel of all your kitchen tools.

Curator's Notes

This striking piece is an exclusive collaboration between Nalata Nalata and metal artisan Mitsuhiro Konishi. We’ve been long-time admirers of Konishi-san’s craftsmanship and artistry, and it was an honor to work with him to create a spatula that feels more like a rare tool from another world than an everyday kitchen utensil. The golden handle of brass gently tapers to an angle, where it meets with richly textured, hand-hammered steel. The head of the spatula has a series of perforations in striking formation, a modern detail that contrasts nicely with the rustic patina of the steel. But aesthetics aside, the spatula is incredibly well-made. Both functional and beautiful, it’s a tool to be used and admired in equal parts. This spatula also comes in a longer version, available here.

Short Turner is a Mitsuhiro Konishi x Nalata Nalata collaboration

Designer/Maker

Maker: Mitsuhiro Konishi

Designer: Mitsuhiro Konishi x Nalata Nalata

Specifications

Dimensions:
2.75” (w) x 10.0” (l) x 1.3” (h) or
70mm (w) x 254mm (l) x 33mm (h)

Weight:
2.6 oz or 75 g

Materials:
Stainless Steel and Brass

Details

Handmade in Gifu, Japan
Composed of two metal components – a brass handle and stainless steel plate joined together with rivets
Hand wash only with mild soap and soft sponge
Do not dishwash
Dry with soft cloth after washing
Handle can be returned to its original luster by using a metal cleaner
Each turner is individually handcrafted by a solo artisan. Contact us for lead times at 

Short Turner

I am a Rocket. From space cadets to scientists, the sight of me in orbit will make anyone over the moon.

Curator's Notes

A beautifully handcrafted, classic toy is the perfect gift for young minds and imaginations ready to take flight. This handmade rocket ship is built from five different types of wood, highlighting the skill and design of Japanese woodwork. The rocket is sanded down to soft, rounded edges and finished with natural walnut oil to ensure that it's safe for aspiring astronauts of all ages. Perfect for young toddlers, this rocket will grow with children throughout their lives, making for a lovely keepsake when they eventually land in adulthood.

Rocket was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Akarino-Tane

Specifications

Dimensions: 2.8” (w) x 2.8” (l) x 5.3" (h) or 70mm (w) x 70mm (l) x 135mm (h)

Weight: 7oz or 198g

Materials: Ash, Maple, Walnut, Cherry, Bubinga Woods

Details

Made in Japan
A wood crafted "rocket flame" drops from the form when the piece is lifted
Features five different types of wood with natural wood colors
Finished with safe for children 100% natural walnut oil coating
Soft rounded edges protect young hands

Rocket

I am a Medium Pocket Pouch. Empty pocket teaches you a million things in life but who said you needed lessons?

Curator's Notes

Perfect size for a phone and some credit cards. Keeps your belongings contained and readily accessible during coffee runs or within a backpack. We love the beige suede colour because it's a classic that will continue to look beautiful as the years go by.

Pocket Pouch was curated by Daniel Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Hender Scheme

Designer: Ryo Kashiwazaki

Specifications

Dimensions:

6.5” (w) x 7.8” (l) or 16.5cm (w) x 19.8cm (l)

Weight:
3 oz or 85 g

Materials:
Cow Suede Leather

Details

Made in Japan
Silver zip closure
Reinforced top-stitching on zipper pull and opening seam
Stamped logo on both sides

Pocket Pouch - Medium

I am a Cast Iron Tealight Holder. When I feel weighed down, I light a few candles to help find my way.

Curator's Notes

When a tea light is burned in this holder, it produces the most stunning sliver of light through the round opening and cutout notch. Like all the Simplicity iron pieces, I like the weight of this piece and the quiet presence it has. Its textured surface and coloration makes it feel like an ancient treasure.

Cast Iron Candle Holder was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Suzuki Morihisa Studio Ltd.

Designer: Simplicity

Specifications

Dimensions:
3.1” (w) x 3.1” (l) x 3.0” (h) or 78mm (w) x 78mm (l) x 75mm (h)

Weight:
3.8 lbs or 1.7 kg

Materials:
Nanbu Cast Iron

Details

Made in Japan\Heavyweight
Maximum candle dimensions the holder can fit is 2" diameter x 2.4" height (50mm x 60mm), a candle shorter than 2.4" is ideal.
Features an etched thin line pattern
Produced in the Suzuki Morihisa foundry, renown for their skilled Nanbu Tekki cast iron manufacturing techniques
Subtle textured surface

Cast Iron Tealight Holder

I am a Binchotan Charcoal Facial Puff. How do you begin cleansing the body and soul? One simple step!... Open my packaging.

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! Made from 100% natural sponge, this facial puff gently exfoliates and balances your skin's pH level while the binchotan charcoal draws out impurities from the skin.

Binchotan Charcoal Facial Puff was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Morihata

Specifications

Dimensions: 2.3” (w) x 3.3” (l)  or 57mm (w) x 83mm (l)

Weight: 0.4 oz or 11 g

Materials: Konjac, charcoal

Details

Made in Japan
100% natural sponge
Made from the roots of Konjac, an edible vegetable fiber plant, and micro-fine binchotan charcoal powder
Wet puff thoroughly under warm running water to expand the sponge
Can be used for 1-3 months
String attached for hanging
Good for sensitive skin
Store in refrigerator or hang dry in airy location

Binchotan Charcoal Facial Puff

I am a Walnut Wood Clipboard. What’s more hip than a board that clips?

Curator's Notes

We use clipboards every day at the shop, so we are especially thrilled to present our own version designed in collaboration with Makoto Koizumi! The designer originally created a small clipboard for grocery lists and expanded the series to Japanese standard paper dimensions but they never quite fit the US standard letter size we use on a daily basis and the clip never held enough papers! We tweaked the design over the course of a few iterations to nail the perfect dimension and are happy to say that we’ve never seen a commonplace office tool filled with such simple beauty. The bar of cherry wood acts as a clip, securely holding papers in place through the invisible force of magnets in a seamless one-touch mechanism. We particularly love how the fastener is removable for both orientations. Magnets are hidden along both the longer and shorter edge of the wood back, so the clipboard can function in portrait and landscape mode. The magnets are strong enough to hold the clipboard on your fridge to hold notes, photos or grocery lists in place. The piece embodies Koizumi-san's ability to see beyond the established structure of an everyday object to transform it in ways that are sensitive to the human experience, and bring true joy with its use.

Walnut Wood Clipboard was created by Makoto Koizumi x Nalata Nalata

Designer/Maker

Designer: Makoto Koizumi

Specifications

Dimensions:

9.27 ” (w) x 12.75 ” (l) x 0.1 ” (h) or 235 mm (w) x 3 24 mm (l) x 3 mm (h)

Weight:

16.08 oz or 456 gr

Materials:
Walnut Wood, Cherry Wood, Metal Magnets

Details

Made in Japan

This piece is an exclusive collaboration between Makoto Koizumi and Nalata Nalata

Ideal for letter size papers (8.5" x 11")

Slight variations in wood grain will occur due to the hand-made nature of the p roduct – each piece is one-of-a-kind

Lightweight and portable

The clip functions through the use of magnets, which are hidden within the maple back

The clip functions in both orientations of the board, and can be removed to be used separately as a magnet

To clean, wipe with a damp, soft cloth and dry immediately

White Cherry version also available, here

Wood Clipboard - Walnut

I am Mini Ikebana Trimmers. Fresh flowers need the most delicate touch but with the right kind of care, they’ll grow up to be healthy and happy individuals. Don’t get me wrong, I don't need the credit but behind every good ikebana arrangement is a great ikebana trimmer.

Curator's Notes

What stands out the most about these specialty handcrafted trimmers is how comfortable the handles are to hold for long periods of time, making them ideal for intricate work like floral arranging. They are typically used for the art of Japanese Ikebana arranging although they can be just as useful for miniature bonsai pruning. The very sharp blades create the cleanest cuts, without bruising or traumatizing the plant or flower stem. As amateur ikebana enthusiasts, we're starting to really understand and appreciate why specialty scissors is important when constructing the delicate arrangements.

Ikebana Trimmers was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Tajika

Designer: Daisuke Tajika

Specifications

Dimensions:
2.5” (w) x 5.0” (l) x 0.4” (h) or
64mm (w) x 127mm (l) x 10mm (h)

Weight:
2 oz or 57 g

Materials:
Steel, Nickel plated

Details

Made in Japan
Smooth Steel finish
Screw may need occasional lubrication if difficulties opening over time develop
Typically used for ikebana flower arranging but can be used as small garden clippers and bonsai trimmers

Ikebana Trimmers - Mini

I am a Hanging Tie Cloth. When your hands and dishes are in need, I won’t leave you hanging on a string now.

Curator's Notes

Akiko Ando’s beautiful hand made textile comes with a thoughtful tie to easily hang it up within reach, to wrap a lunchbox, or to tie a small package. Made of durable cotton, this versatile cloth is a lovely addition to your textile collection that makes anything from transporting objects to drying dishes a little bit more enjoyable.

Hanging Tie Cloth was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Akiko Ando

Designer: Akiko Ando

Specifications

Dimensions:
Cloth: 13.0” (w) x 13.8” (l) or 33cm (w) x 35cm (l)
Tie length: 19.0" or 48cm

Weight:
0.9 oz or  26 g

Materials: 100% Cotton

Details

Handmade in Japan
Cloth is square shaped
Edges top stitched
Thread chain loop is on one corner for hanging or keeping a package secure by stringing the tie through it
A long tie extends from another corner for tying and hanging
Features a contrasting coloured thread tab that reinforces the tie
Colour of chain loop and reinforcement tab varies
Each order includes one hanging tie cloth chosen at random. Please contact us if you have any specific requests

Hanging Tie Cloth

I am a Large Pocket Pouch. The bigger the pocket the more room for fun things.

Curator's Notes

Clutch on to daily necessities like a phone and wallet with this classy camel pouch. In addition to your phone and wallet, it is big enough to store a couple larger things like an iPad without distorting the shape.

Pocket Pouch was curated by Daniel Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Hender Scheme

Designer: Ryo Kashiwazaki

Specifications

Dimensions:

9.5” (w) x 11.8” (l) or 24.1cm (w) x 29.8cm (l)

Weight:
5 oz or 142 g

Materials:
Cow Suede Leather

Details

Made in Japan
Silver zip closure
Reinforced top-stitching on zipper pull and opening seam
Stamped logo on both sides

Pocket Pouch - Large

I am an Ebony Business Card Case. I mean business.

Curator's Notes

Norio Tanno's way of crafting intricate wood objects continues to amaze me. For many years Tanno-san told us that he would be retiring from woodworking and handing down the ranks to his son, Masakage Tanno, but we're relieved to see that he is back at it! What amazes me the most about these business card cases are that they are carved out of a single piece of wood with no other materials except for one spring that securely closes the box with a satisfying click. A barely visible diagonal cut line indicates the lid of the case while never interrupting the continuous wood grain. Each one has a natural warm wood presence enhanced by smooth rounded edges that conform to the hand.

Ebony Business Card Case was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: Norio Masakage

Designer: Norio Masakage

Specifications

Dimensions: 0.6” (w) x 3.0” (l) x 4.1” (h) or 1.4cm (w) x 7.6cm (l) x 10.5cm (h)

Weight: 1.8 oz or 51 g

Materials: Ebony, Walnut, Padouk

Details

Handmade in Asahikawa, Japan
Made out of solid wood, including all wood joinery except for a miniature hidden spring for the wood clasp to close securely
Case is mainly ebony wood
Closure is walnut wood
Branded with a small signature of the artisan “Tanno” on the bottom of the case
Holds standard business card and credit card dimensions

Business Card Case - Ebony (out Of Stock)

I am a Siwa Black Envelope. Just because I like to push the envelope, doesn't mean I can be pushed around.

Curator's Notes

The Siwa envelope is the first product developed and designed by Onao and Naoto Fukasawa when the innovative material Naoron was first developed. It remains their staple product and bestseller in Japan. The water resistant surface and texture are both wonderful to feel and highly functional.

Siwa Envelope was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Onao Co.

Designer: Naoto Fukasawa

Specifications

Dimensions:
1” (w) x 10” (l) x 14” (h) or
25mm (w) x 254mm (l) x 356mm (h)

Weight:
3 oz or 85 g

Materials:
Naoron Paper

Details

Made in Japan
Naoron is a strong and highly water resistant paper made from recycled PET fibers, wood pulp and polyolefin.
Created using the washi-suki paper manufacturing method
Front flap with envelope closure and string
Surface is naturally creased and will obtain more creases with time and use
Ironing not recommended

Machine washing or drying is not recommended
If cleaning is needed, we recommend using a damp cloth to spot clean and dry thoroughly afterwards

Siwa Envelope - Black

I am a Pen Wall Pocket. Alongside keeping organized, there’s a couple other things that help me stay relaxed - hanging out with my friends and helping others.

Curator's Notes

The Wall Pockets by Hender Scheme are such an original organizational system. Each one has a specific purpose, to hold business cards, pens or letters, and are just the right size for their functions. Hung as a group or individually, these premium leather pockets add infinite charm to an office or study.

Leather Wall Pocket was curated by Daniel Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Hender Scheme

Designer: Ryo Kashiwazaki

Specifications

Dimensions:
3.5” (w) x 5.0” (l) x 1.0" (h) or 89mm (w) x 127mm (l) x 25mm (h)

Weight:
1 oz or 28 g

Materials:
Cow Leather

Details

Made in Japan
This particular pocket is ideal for standard size pens and pencils
Wall hanging
Cut and folded with interlocking tabs
Constructed with no stitching
Gold embossed Hender Scheme logo on back of pockets
Features a strip of leather that can be used to tack on a wall
Strips can also attach vertically to perforated tabs on the back of another pocket to create a joined system
Small scratches and imperfections can be expected from the raw cow hide
The leather will naturally develop a patina over time and showcase unique traces of everyday use

Leather Wall Pocket - Pen

I am a 12" Wrought-Iron Frying Pan. My cooking area is even and grand.

Curator's Notes

The hand-forged frying pan is the centerpiece of Takayoshi Narita's collection - representing both the artisan's high level of craftsmanship, and his fine arts background. It was the first piece of cookware he created, and served as a catalyst in his pivot from fine arts to metalworking.

The pan is made from four pieces: basin, handle, and two rivets. Heat does not transfer to the handle as the rivets absorb the majority of heat when cooking. Everything is hand forged by Narita-san himself, requiring hours of physical labor to transform iron from a solid mass to a perfectly thin pan. The result is a gorgeous and highly functional pan that, when properly seasoned, becomes naturally non-stick.

Wrought-Iron Frying Pan was curated by Stevenson Aung
Designer/Maker

Designer: Takayoshi Narita

Maker: Takayoshi Narita

Specifications

Dimensions:
Without handle: 12” (w) x 12” (l) x 1.6” (h) or 30.5cm (w) x 30.5cm (l) x 4.1cm (h)
Handle length: 7 ” (l) or 18cm (l)

Weight:
2.3 lb or 1043 g

Materials:
Wrought-iron

Details

Handcrafted in Japan
Handle is securely attached to pan with two rivets
Features a hole on the handle for hanging

Seasoning the pan prior to first use and periodically for maintenance is recommended

Wrought-iron Frying Pan - 12" (out Of Stock)

I am a Small Stacking Pot. Keeping the kitchen organized is a team effort, and I've got the edge to lift and support my fellow team members.

Curator's Notes

Adding to its roster of jars and the pasta case, MokuNeji's stacking pots provide the perfect storage solutions for kitchens with limited shelf space. The lids not only have wood screw threads but the tops also have narrow ledges carved in to prevent jars that are stacked on top from slipping and sliding. The stacking pots come in two sizes, small and large, that easily mix and match with other MokuNeji containers to meet your pantry's needs.

Small Stacking Pot was curated by Stevenson Aung

Designer/Maker

Maker: MokuNeji

Designer: Hiroshi Yamasaki

Specifications

Dimensions:

3.6" (w) x 3.6" (l) x 3.7" (h) or 92mm (w) x 92mm (l) x 94mm (h)

Weight:

9 oz or 255 g

Materials: Zelkova wood, Glass

Details

Made in Japan
Capacity: 420ml
Large Stacking Pot available here

Wood lids are finished with a food-safe urethane coating
Lids are crafted from natural wood and are not suitable for refrigeration
Hand wash recommended
Do not twist lid too tightly as this may damage the wood screw-threads
Not microwave safe

Stacking Pot - Small

I am "Glass Code" a Leather Eyewear Strap. Hang in there, I won't let you fall!

Curator's Notes

I like this strap for sunglasses more than anything. I don't typically put my sunglasses folded away and tucked into my collar so if you're like me, eyewear straps are a great solution and this natural vegetan version by Hender Scheme is at once functional and unique.

"Glass Code" Eyewear Strap was curated by Daniel Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Hender Scheme

Designer: Ryo Kashiwazaki

Specifications

Dimensions:
Strap length: 34” (l) or 864mm (l)
Back neck band width: 0.6" (w) or 14mm (w)

Weight:
0.4 oz or 11 g

Materials:
Cow Leather, Rubber

Details

Made in Japan
Eyewear arms attach to two rubber loops to stay in place
Rubber loops are secured onto leather cord with silver clasps
Small scratches and imperfections can be expected from the raw cow hide
The leather will develop a patina over time and showcase unique traces of everyday use

"glass Cord" Leather Eyewear Strap

I am a Large Koshimasu Oil Pot Server. I might be full of oil, but that doesn't mean I'm greasy. I filter out the fluff so you can trust that my intentions are pure.

Curator's Notes

Conte's Koshimasu oil pot server has become a household staple we didn't know we would reach for so frequently. Consisting of a stainless steel container, filter and lid, the pot has a tall and slim shape that takes up minimal space on the counter. The container's curved lip stops drips, and the lid can be lifted with one hand to keep the other hand free and clean during use. While the pot is made to strain cooking oil for reuse, we like using it to mix and infuse dressings directly in the container. Small size can be found here.

Koshimasu Oil Pot Server was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker

Maker: Conte

Designer: Rina Ono

Specifications

Dimensions:
4.8” (w) x 6.2” (l) x 5” (h) or 123mm (w) x 158mm (l) x 127mm (h)

Weight:
15 oz or 425 g

Materials:
Stainless steel

Details

Made in Tsubame, Japan, a town renown for stainless steel production
Koshimasu in Japanese means "to strain"
Includes the pot, a strainer and a lid
The innovative spoutless rim effectively pours liquids regardless of the direction used
Holds 700ml
Used for mixing and pouring dressings, straining oil or measuring ingredients
The brand name Conte comes from combining the words con, meaning "together" and te, meaning "hand"
Lightweight material makes for easy cleaning and cooking
Dishwasher safe
Stainless steel is coated with a thin oxide film that helps prevent rusting