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 a new sense of 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 "Shikki Kutarou," a lacquerware manufacturer based there.
Currently, the series is available in two colors:- The Dark Blue Standard (std) Series- The Light Blue Refresh Series
---
KyutarouBlue is a product born from the maker’s particular commitment.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 tableware considered taboo?We were confident that it would become a truly wonderful piece of tableware.
In the Echizen lacquerware region, there exists a technology for commercial lacquerware that has developed based on traditional techniques.Using this technology and special paints, we were able to produce a carefully crafted blue color and a semi-transparent finish that highlights the wood grain.
This is how "Kyuutaoru Blue" was created.
---
The urethane paint used exclusively for tableware, developed with the technology of commercial lacquerware, is a safe and安心 (peace of mind) food-sanitary law-compliant coating.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 utensils using specialized techniques.
The delicate color tones are achievable thanks to the skills of Echizen artisans.The gradient created by the semi-transparent paint that allows the wood grain to show through resembles waves.The entire piece is sharply defined with a border of deep blue.
The blue areas are coated with semi-transparent paint, creating a gradation of the wood grain.Even the same product can vary in hue—ranging from cobalt blue to sky blue—depending on the color of the wood at the time of manufacture, making each item unique.Each piece has its own character, making it a one-of-a-kind item just for you.
---
All bases are made of natural wood, lightweight, and have a warm, tactile feel.A faint wood aroma also emanates from the items.Because of their high heat retention, cups can be held with your hands without feeling hot.
Being wooden tableware, they are less likely to break if dropped.This makes them confidently recommended for small children as well.
---
KyutarouBlue tableware matches both Japanese and Western styles.Using it for hospitality or entertaining guests will surely spark lively conversations.
It is versatile—perfect for home cafes, home buffets, or dessert presentations.Even simply placing takeout side dishes on it can change the atmosphere.
It pairs excellently with outdoor settings—balcony lunches, veranda meals, or outdoor activities.Vivid colors like yellow, red, and 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 also 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 Wedding."This anniversary symbolizes a couple becoming a family and establishing roots like a tree, and giving a gift related to wood is a way to celebrate this milestone.
---
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 maintenance is simple.Wash with neutral detergent just like other tableware—no special effort required.
The wood grain areas are coated with a transparent urethane finish, preventing water absorption.To prolong the life of the item, avoid soaking in water; instead, dry naturally or wipe with a soft cloth.
KyutarouBlue’s packaging is gray.Some may wonder, "Why not use blue in the packaging?"The reason is that we want you to be captivated by the "blue" that appears when you open it.Therefore, the packaging is intentionally monochrome and simple in design.
---
○ Important notes before purchase:*Regarding dents and uneven 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 at this price point.Please consider minor dents or color irregularities as unique characteristics, and enjoy the "Kyutarou BLUE" and wooden tableware casually.
*Regarding variations in the blue color and grain*Since the "Kyutarou BLUE" series involves applying semi-transparent paint to natural wood, each piece will have a different shade of blue and unique wood grain expression.This is proof of the natural wood material.Each item has its own personality, and no two are exactly the same.We hope you enjoy your own unique "Kyutarou BLUE."