Art Kintsugi: Beginners Workshop

What you'll learn

Learn the mindful Japanese art of golden ceramic repair with our Handcrafts courses in Sydney!

Kintsugi is a contemporary approach to the centuries-old Japanese practice of repairing broken ceramics with gold-toned finishes, transforming damaged objects into unique works of art. Inspired by the philosophy of Wabi Sabi — finding beauty in imperfection — the process celebrates restoration rather than concealment.

In this hands-on beginners workshop, you’ll learn the essential techniques of Art Kintsugi using modern, accessible materials and guided step-by-step instruction. Working through the seven key stages of the process, you’ll repair and decorate a ceramic piece while developing an understanding of both the artistic and practical elements of this distinctive craft.

Along the way, you’ll explore the differences between traditional and modern Kintsugi methods, learn about the safe use of tools and materials, and discover how thoughtful repair can give new life to broken objects that might otherwise be discarded.

Relaxed, creative, and deeply rewarding, this workshop offers a beautiful introduction to the world of Art Kintsugi — and you’ll leave with your own repaired ceramic piece to take home.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this introductory Art Kintsugi workshop, you will have explored concepts and techniques such as:

• Repairing damaged ceramic pieces using the Art Kintsugi method with epoxy glue and putty
• Decorating repaired pieces using the Art Makie technique with lacquer and gold metal powder
• Understanding the seven essential steps of the Art Kintsugi process
• Recognising differences between traditional and modern Kintsugi methods
• Exploring sustainable ways to rescue and reuse damaged objects
• Sourcing materials and tools for future projects

Course content

What will be covered in this introductory Art Kintsugi workshop?

During the workshop, participants will work with techniques and ideas such as:

• A brief history of traditional Kintsugi
• Comparing traditional slow methods with modern Art Kintsugi techniques
• Understanding the structure and purpose of the seven essential repair steps
• Learning how to adapt techniques for more complex repairs
• Exploring artistic approaches to decorative repair and design
• Safe handling and use of tools and materials
• Information about food safety and materials used in ceramic repair
• Guidance on sourcing tools and materials for future projects

Content may vary slightly depending on class pace, participant interests, and instructor approach.

Intended audience

Who is this introductory Art Kintsugi workshop for?

This workshop is ideal for beginners, craft enthusiasts, makers, and anyone interested in learning the mindful art of ceramic repair through a creative and hands-on process.

It’s ideal for those interested in sustainability, Japanese-inspired craft practices, decorative arts, and giving broken objects a beautiful new life.

No prior experience is required.

Course materials

All materials are included in this workshop:

• A small broken dish for repair
• Tool kit and materials for use during class
• Facial masks and disposable gloves
• Printed information and instruction sheets

Please note: A suitable broken dish is provided during the workshop. Please do not bring your own items to repair during class. If you have a damaged item you wish to repair, your tutor is happy to provide a short consultation after the workshop.

What to bring to class

• An apron or comfortable clothes that can get a little dusty
• Spectacles, if you normally wear them
• Hair tie or hair band for long hair

Additional information

Please note the following:

• This class is not recommended during pregnancy due to the materials used
• The finishing time may run slightly over
• The class will not commence until all students have arrived, so late arrival will not be possible
• Pure gold (24k gold) is not used in this workshop
• Materials used include epoxy, gum turpentine, lacquer, and metal powder
• Some materials may irritate skin — disposable gloves will be provided
• It is strongly recommended that students with hand injuries do not participate in the workshop