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4. Kintsugi in practice: Kokuso paste and filling cracks

  • Writer: Marija Salovarda Lozo
    Marija Salovarda Lozo
  • Mar 12
  • 1 min read

After 8 days of rest in the Urushi box , Mugi-Urushi has hardened and I can start the 2nd step – filling cracks and damaged edges with Kokuso paste .


What is Kokuso paste? Kokuso paste is a mixture of urushi lacquer, wood powder and polishing powder that is used to fill cracks and replace lost parts of ceramics. Its strength and flexibility ensure a long-lasting bond that withstands thermal and mechanical changes.


Close-up of hands mixing Kokuso paste, a blend of urushi lacquer, clay or wood powder, and fine organic materials, used to fill ceramic cracks.
making Kokuso

Why is this step important?

  • Coconut paste additionally strengthens the joint and fills small cracks.

  • The application is gradual – only 0.5 to 1 mm can be applied per day .

  • The entire process takes about another week , with careful drying between layers.










Steps in this part of the process:

A broken ceramic plate being repaired with Kokuso paste, carefully filling cracks and missing edges to strengthen the bond.
Filling gaps with Kokuso

  • Preparing Kokuso mass and applying it to cracks.

  • Filling irregularities and minor damage.

  • Placing the plate back in the Urushi box to dry.






✨ Every imperfection tells its own story. Next step: final smoothing and preparation for the golden finish!


🔜 In the next blog I will describe the steps before gold and applying gold.

 
 
 

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