kintsugi

The glue that came with the kit is *still* not set or dry after 24 hours! The off brand super glue I used on the second broken cup did set but I was only able to get two pieces put back together.

I mixed Elmer’s with the gold powder and painted over the repaired crack.

I also repaired a glow in the dark dragon figurine yesterday and covered the joint this morning with the same glue/gold mixture.

The FRIENDS frame is beyond repair.

Takeaways:

This is a technique that requires patience and practice.

Basic glueing skills are helpful.

I’m glad I tried it and will probably do again.

😊

Happy Friday!

Using a kit purchased online

The box included two small cups, and I hesitated on *how* to break them. I wrapped one in a dish towel and tapped it with a hammer. Nothing. Turned it on its side and repeated with success. Multiple pieces. Too many, it seemed.

Later the same day, the F•R•I•E•N•D•S picture frame on my studio door fell and cracked in 5 places and I added it to the repair queue.

Per the instructions, I mixed gold powder with the 2-part epoxy in a disposable cup with a wooden stick (included) and applied it to a crack in the frame. The directions stated, “you will be shocked at how fast it dries out.”

Shocked was not on my list of reactions. I held the pieces together for 3 minutes and they would not stick.

I then tried the mixture on the teacup, same results. By then, golden glue was everywhere it was not supposed to be. It was Intro to Glue Day in Kindergarten all over again. 🤭

Using the epoxy alone worked better. Two pieces held together on the cup, but the frame remained broken. It may be the material it’s made from. After all, it’s not ceramic.

Next step is to wait 24 hours, then paint the gold dust on the seam, which I will tend to tomorrow.

Until then, xoxo

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Disclaimer:

Kintsugi is a traditional Japanese technique to repair broken objects by artisans with years of experience and I am not making light of kintsugi by sharing my novice efforts. 

The approach of restoring something broken to its former glory without discarding it resonates to my core. 

Treating breaks and repairs as part of the object’s history is a beautiful antidote to the culture of disposability.