Introduction of Blue × Wooden Blue Wooden Tableware "KyutarouBlue" - Two Series (Dark Blue Standard and Light Blue Refresh)
Although blue and food are often considered a taboo combination, blue is actually a color with high affinity for food. It pairs exceptionally well with Japanese dining tables and food products.
These tableware items, combining wood and blue in an unprecedented way, bring new style and excitement to your dining experience.
Location: Kawada District, Sabae City, Fukui Prefecture.The Kawada District, surrounded by mountains, has been a production area for Echizen lacquerware for approximately 1,500 years.The KyutarouBlue series is crafted by "Lacquerware Kyuutarou," a company with a long history of lacquerware craftsmanship in that region.
Currently, there are two color variations:- The standard series in dark blue (std)- The refresh series in light blue
---
KyutarouBlue is a product born from the maker’s particular attention to detail.It was inspired by a comment that "if lacquer or paint is applied all over, it’s hard for amateurs to tell whether the material is wood or plastic."This led to the idea of finding a way to clearly convey the魅力 of both "wood" and "lacquerware" simultaneously.
At the same time, there was a desire to create blue-colored tableware.Why is blue considered taboo for tableware?We were confident that it would become a truly wonderful piece.
In the Echizen lacquerware region, there exists a technology for commercial-grade lacquerware that has developed based on traditional techniques.Using that technology and special paints, we were able to develop a carefully crafted blue color and a semi-transparent coating that highlights the wood grain.
This resulted in the creation of "Kyuutaoru Blue."
---
The urethane paint used exclusively for tableware, developed with the expertise of commercial lacquerware techniques, is a safe and hygienic coating that complies with the Food Sanitation Law.It is highly durable, easy to care for, and resistant to aging.Each piece is finished by artisans who spray the paint onto natural wood tableware using specialized techniques.
The delicate color tones are achievable thanks to the craftsmanship of Echizen artisans.The gradient created by the semi-transparent coating that allows the wood grain to show through resembles waves.The edges are outlined in a deep blue, giving a crisp, refined look.
The blue areas are coated with semi-transparent paint, creating a gradation effect in the wood grain.Even with the same product, the hue of blue varies depending on the color of the wood at the time of manufacture, resulting in rich variations such as cobalt blue or sky blue.Each piece has a unique face, making it a one-of-a-kind item for its owner.
---
All the wood used is natural, lightweight, and has a warm, tactile feel.A faint aroma of wood also emanates from each piece.Because of its high heat retention, cups can be held with your hands without feeling hot.
Being wooden tableware, it is less likely to break if dropped.It is confidently recommended even for small children.
---
KyutarouBlue tableware matches both Japanese and Western styles.Using it for entertaining guests will surely spark lively conversations.
It is versatile—perfect for home cafes, home buffets, or dessert presentations.Even simply placing takeout dishes on it can change the atmosphere.
It pairs excellently with outdoor settings such as balcony lunches, veranda meals, or outdoor activities.Vivid colors like yellow, red, or green also match beautifully!It can be casually used in Japanese-style rooms and with Japanese cuisine.It also pairs very well with Japanese ceramics.
---
It makes a great gift or present.Since it is made of wood, it is less likely to break, and it can be given as a "Something Blue" gift for weddings.*What is "Something Blue"?*It is one of the traditional good luck charms (Something Four) for weddings.It is a European superstition wishing happiness for the bride.
It is also recommended for celebrating the 5th wedding anniversary, known as the "Wooden Anniversary."This anniversary symbolizes a couple becoming a family and establishing roots like a tree, and it is customary to give a gift related to wood to celebrate.
---
Because of its durability, the color will hardly fade over time.As it is made of wood, it cannot be used in microwave ovens or dishwashers, but cleaning is simple.It can be washed with neutral detergent just like other tableware, with no special care required.
The wood grain areas are coated with a transparent urethane layer, preventing water absorption.To prolong the life of the item, avoid soaking in water; instead, dry naturally or wipe gently with a soft cloth.
The packaging of KyutarouBlue is gray.Some may ask, "Why not use blue in the packaging?"The reason is that we want the vibrant blue that emerges when you open the package to captivate your attention.Therefore, the packaging is intentionally kept monochrome and simple.
---
**Please note before purchasing:***Regarding dents or unevenness in the wood grain:*The production of the "Kyutarou BLUE" series begins with inspecting the raw, unfinished wood.During inspection, pieces with significant dents or less attractive wood grain are set aside.About half of the raw wood is discarded at this stage, and the remaining pieces are painted for the "Kyutarou BLUE" series.If we were to tighten inspection further, it would be difficult to offer this product at this price.Please consider minor dents or color irregularities as unique characteristics, and enjoy the "Kyutarou BLUE" and wooden tableware casually.
*Regarding the shade and unevenness of the blue paint:*Since the "Kyutarou BLUE" series uses semi-transparent paint on wood, each piece will have a different shade of blue and wood grain expression.This is proof of the natural wood material.Each piece has its own personality, and no two are exactly alike.We hope you enjoy your own unique "Kyutarou BLUE."