Frequently

Asked Questions

Below are answers to common questions about workshops and commissions. If you don’t see your question listed, feel free to contact me directly.

Workshops

  • No prior experience is needed! All workshops are beginner-friendly and I guide you step by step through the process.

  • All materials, tools, and a ceramic piece to repair are included. You’ll leave with your repaired piece at the end.

  • All the ceramics used in my workshops are salvaged from local pottery studios. Any unclaimed work that’s been left for over six months gets generously donated for use in my classes—giving each piece a second life instead of ending up in landfill.

  • Yes! You’re welcome to bring your own ceramic piece. If the piece is highly complex or a treasured heirloom, I recommend checking with me first to ensure it’s suitable for a beginner-level project.

  • Yes—you’ll leave the workshop with your completed, repaired piece.

  • No. Workshops use modern (epoxy-based) techniques, which are not food-safe. The repaired piece is intended for decorative use only.

  • Workshops typically run for about 2.5-3 hours.

  • Most public workshops are held at Cernamic Studio in Deptford, London. I also teach at other partner venues throughout the year—see my Partner Workshops page for details.

  • Both workshops teach the same modern Kintsugi process, but you’ll finish your repair using either genuine gold or silver powder. The technique for applying each metal differs slightly, and I guide you through the specific steps for each finish.

  • Classes are small and intimate, with a maximum of 8 participants to ensure plenty of personal guidance. If you want to hold a larger class, reach out and I may be able to accommodate.

  • Yes! I offer private workshops for individuals, small groups, or corporate events. Contact me to discuss your needs.

  • Cancellations and reschedules are handled through ClassBento (my booking platform). You can cancel or reschedule up to 3 days before the class. I’m usually flexible if emergencies come up—just reach out if something unexpected happens.

  • Workshops use modern (non-urushi) materials, so there’s no risk of urushi-related reactions. The studio is partially accessible: the main workspace is step-free, but unfortunately the toilet is not wheelchair accessible. The class requires some fine motor skills for painting and handling small tools. If you have specific access needs or visual impairments, please contact me in advance so I can discuss how best to accommodate.

  • Participants aged 12 to 16 are welcome to attend if accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Commissions

  • I repair all types of ceramics, including stoneware, porcelain, and earthenware

  • Only traditional Kintsugi repairs using natural lacquer and powdered metals result in a food-safe finish (once fully cured). Non-traditional repairs are not food-safe.

  • Pricing depends on the length of break lines and the surface area of missing sections. I provide a preliminary quote based on photos and measurements, followed by a final quote after I’ve inspected the piece in person.

  • Pricing is based on the total length of break lines and the square centimeter area of missing sections. Additional costs apply for large missing areas or custom finishes.

    • Non-traditional repairs: usually 1 month or less

    • Traditional repairs: approximately 3+ months depending on humidity and season

  • Yes! I accept international commissions, though additional costs for shipping, customs, or materials may apply.

  • Rush repairs are available for non-traditional repairs only. Please allow at least 1 week for a rushed repair, and note that an additional fee applies. Traditional repairs and jewelry commissions cannot be expedited.

  • You can ship your piece (carefully packaged) or arrange an in-person drop-off if you’re local to London. Shipping costs are the client’s responsibility.

  • I offer a range of traditional finishes (gold, silver, black lacquer, red lacquer) and modern metal leaf options. If you have a specific tone in mind, I’m happy to discuss it. Lacquer is a versatile material and can create a large range of finishes.

  • Repairs are decorative. They are water-tight under normal use but should not be used in dishwashers or microwaves. Traditional repairs must be hand-washed gently.

  • If I discover additional damage after inspection, I’ll contact you with an updated quote and timeline for approval before proceeding.

  • Yes— I can rebuild the form or work around it. I’ll evaluate this when reviewing your photos and again when I asses the piece in person.

  • If a piece arrives with additional damage from transit, I’ll discuss options with you on a case-by-case basis. If a piece is damaged during the repair process, I’ll inform you right away and, in most cases, I’m happy to repair the new damage at no extra cost.