Hello all, I’ve been using a lot of traditional Japanese urushi lacquer for shakuhachi repairs in the past few weeks. The lacquer cures smooth like glass but often contains impurities so it has to be strained before using. Otherwise, the finish may end up with bits of pigment or dust particles. (It’s important to not have the fan on when during the application!)

The filter paper is called shin yoshino. I like to filter it twice.

The brush strokes disappears in a few seconds.

This Honshu Red urushi is slightly more difficult to use as it takes longer to cure. It has to go on with just the right consistency other wise it may wrinkle. I err on the light side with a thin application first then followed by a second coat in two weeks. It’s going to be quite beautiful when finished.

Things are going to get real busy soon. I’ve been working on a new theater show. I continue to focus on the work in the shop but my office hours will most likely go out the window. Please feel free to contact me with any questions but I apologize in advance if I can’t get back to you right away.  It shouldn’t be more than a day or two though.

Namaste, Perry