KUMIJI DESIGN

Tools for daily life that wear their "original form." What is KUMIJI DESIGN?

KUMIJI DESIGN is a lifestyle brand founded in January 2022 by metal artist and designer Shota Kumiji. Based in Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture, the brand creates daily tools using "real" materials such as brass, aluminum, stainless steel, and glass.

The brand concept is "original form." Rather than treating the moment of purchase as the peak of beauty, KUMIJI DESIGN pursues products that grow more appealing over time — wearing the natural beauty of their materials. The thought of objects that naturally harmonize with their space and evolve alongside their users is embedded in every product.

After studying product design at Hosei University Graduate School, Kumiji worked in the architectural metalwork industry, taking part in the restoration of historic buildings and the production of monuments, mastering metalworking techniques such as casting, forging, and hand-hammered metalwork. He then launched KUMIJI DESIGN to apply that technical foundation and experience to his own work.

Korean cutlery series: "Sukkara" and "Poku"

The signature products that have gained popularity for KUMIJI DESIGN are the brass "Sukkara" (spoon) and "Poku" (fork). Inspired by traditional Korean cutlery, this series features a flat, round spoon bowl and slender handle, designed to fit naturally onto the Japanese dining table.

The refined, unadorned form is made possible by Kumiji\'s metalworking skill. Because the brass is used as-is, without coating, the color deepens with use, developing a richer patina over time. Some users notice the metallic scent characteristic of brass at first, but as an oxide film forms with use, it gradually becomes unnoticeable.

With Sukkara at ¥3,300 (tax included) and Poku at ¥3,520 (tax included), accessible pricing for handmade brass cutlery is another part of the appeal.

For choosing brass cutlery and comparisons with other brands

You might also like: Complete brass cutlery guide

Recommended Brass Cutlery (Made in Japan) | Spoons, Forks, and Other Lifelong Dining Tools

Other product lineup

KUMIJI DESIGN offers a wide range of metal products beyond cutlery to add character to everyday life.

• Pendant lamps: Such as the "papillon" series, abstractly expressing a butterfly\'s wings. The brass and aluminum shades create a delicate sparkle.
• Table clocks and wall clocks: Minimalist brass and aluminum clocks.
• Flower vessels: Single-stem vases and other metal flower vessels that quietly complement a space.
• Kitchen miscellany: Cutlery rests, muddlers, square plates, etc.
• Wedding items: One-of-a-kind pieces such as ring pillows for special occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions about KUMIJI DESIGN

Q. Where can I purchase the products?

A. They are available at the official online store, as well as on Rakuten and at select shops.
In addition to direct sales at the official store (kumijistore.com), they are carried by Rakuten retailers and online select shops such as NONE TOO SOON, CATAWARA, and ZiEN.

Q. Which should I start with — Sukkara or Poku?

A. We recommend starting with "Sukkara."
Sukkara (the spoon) sees frequent use for curry, soup, rice bowls, and desserts in daily meals — and is the item where the patina of brass cutlery is easiest to experience. Once you love how it feels, adding Poku (the fork) and the cutlery rest creates a sense of unity on the table.

Q. How do I care for it?

A. After use, wash with mild detergent and thoroughly dry off the water.
Because the brass is uncoated, leaving moisture can cause discoloration or verdigris. Enjoying the patina is part of the appeal of KUMIJI DESIGN — but if you want to restore the original luster, polishing with a paste of vinegar and salt or a metal polish (such as Pikal) will bring back the golden color.

Q. Do you accept made-to-order requests?

A. Yes. We accept made-to-order for discontinued items and one-of-a-kind orders.
The official site\'s menu includes a "Discontinued (made-to-order available)" category, so past products can be made to order. One-of-a-kind orders for wedding items and similar pieces are also possible. For details, please inquire through the Contact form on the official site.