Upcycled kintsugi bags preserving Japan’s craftsmanship through contemporary design

In today’s world of mass production and consumption, there’s a growing interest in environmentally friendly manufacturing methods and products. As technology keeps developing, we tend to search for entirely new methods. However, the inspiration for that may lie within traditions from time to time.

In Japan, such cases have arisen quite a bit. Here is one example, aiming to pass the traditional materials and craftsmanship to the next generation through apparel items.

“Kintsugi” bags preserving Japan’s tradition by sAto

sAto crafts stylish “Kintsugi” bags from discarded sailcloths and traditional materials. Kintsugi originally refers to Japan’s traditional method of repairing broken pottery with lacquer and gold. The idea of the Kintsugi bag comes from the beauty of transforming broken pottery into a new piece of art. sAto stitches discarded sailcloths with gold threads called “Kinshi,” traditionally used for Kimono, particularly those made in Kyoto Prefecture known as “Nishijin Ori.” Kinshi uses traditional materials, including lacquer, washi (Japanese traditional paper) and gold leaf.

(Video: Kinshi creation involves an elaborate process: spreading lacquer on washi paper, carefully placing thin gold leaves, and cutting the paper into strips. The gold leaf, just 1/10000 mm thick, requires exceptional skill to adhere perfectly.)

The founder, Akari Hori, was raised by parents who own a business selling gold leaf in Kyoto. Although the business has a rich 300-year history, it faces challenges such as a lack of successors and a shrinking market. While supporting the family business, Hori discovered her passion for preserving traditional materials and craftsmanship for future generations by producing items that resonate with modern times.

The idea of upcycling discarded sailcloths originated from Hori’s father, who enjoys sailing in his free time and created bags from old sailcloths for fellow sailors. Currently, sAto sources Kinshi directly from craftsmen and obtains old sailcloths from university sailing clubs.

Attractive contemporary design, appealing to fashion lovers

sAto believes that stylish designs, appealing to individuals in modern society, are essential for preserving these traditions for the next generation. Therefore, they are dedicated to crafting highly designed products that appeal to consumers, even if they are unaware of the product’s background.

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In addition, sAto collaborates with ATELIER FUCCA, which offers disability employment services. The artisans at ATELIER FUCCA express their creativity by crafting tags, earrings and stickers for sAto. Those one-of-the-kind in the world art pieces enhance the distinctiveness of sAto’s products.

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(Unique kintsugi stickers made by the creators for use on ripped or stained parts of bags.)

Moreover, one percent of sAto’s profits go towards domestic tree-planting activities for urushi (Japanese lacquer). The brand aims to generate sufficient demand to enable Kinshi artisans to train their successors over time.

Whether you’re fascinated by Japanese culture, eager to contribute to environmental solutions, or simply seeking a stylish bag, check out their website.