Lue

Brass that fits the hand. What is Lue?

"Lue," based with its workshop in Setouchi City, Okayama Prefecture, is a brand by metalsmith Ruka Kikuchi, creating cutlery, miscellany, and accessories centered on brass.

Brass is a material that changes to calm tones as you use it. The works — created by hand through hammering and cutting — each have their own expression. The Lue brass that becomes familiar in the hand makes the user\'s life warmer. "Making things that bring a little joy each time you use them, and that can be used for a long time" — that is the origin of Lue\'s manufacturing.

Two Product Lines

Handcraft

The heart and origin of Lue. Under the belief that "making each one by hand, and that there are forms only human hands can express," all items are created by Mr. Kikuchi\'s handwork. Through the metalworking technique of tankin (hammered metalwork), the "hammer marks" remaining on the brass surface — beaten one strike at a time with a hammer — reflect light in complex ways, creating a unique, gentle shine.
The official site carries the words "In a sense, the human hand is more delicate and precise than a machine" — conveying a deep pride in handwork.

Industrial Product

At Lue, the philosophy is not that "only handmade is good." There is an honest stance toward manufacturing — that depending on the product, machine-made may be more beautiful and keep costs down.
The strength of the industrial line is that Mr. Kikuchi himself can make the prototype by hand. Based on that prototype, through trial and error with domestic factories and staff, it is brought toward completion. Products that combine both — the warmth of handwork and the refinement of industrial products.

Main Lue product lineup

Lue\'s brass cutlery and miscellany offer a diverse lineup.

• Cutlery: Fruit forks, dessert forks, dinner forks, teaspoons, dessert spoons, curry spoons, ice cream spoons, dessert knives, cheese knives, tea servers, sporks (fusion of spoon and fork), and more.
• Tableware: Brass flat plates (4-sun, 5.5-sun, 7-sun, 1-shaku).
• Miscellany / Stationery: Paper knives, coffee measures, brass rulers, clips, portable shoe horns, money clips, and more.

All items use uncoated brass as-is, growing into calmer tones the more you use them. The beauty that shines even when brought directly to the table as a serving spoon is the appeal.

Want to compare Lue cutlery with other brands?

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Frequently Asked Questions about Lue

Q. Where can I purchase Lue products?

A. They are available at retailers and online shops nationwide.
Lue products are carried at select shops and online stores nationwide — including moyi store, TOCAKU, and FRANK Kurashi no Dougu. The list of carrying stores can be found on the "Agencies" page of the official site.

Q. What is the difference between Handcraft and Industrial?

A. Handcraft is the line where Mr. Kikuchi creates each one by hand; Industrial is the line manufactured at factories based on hand-made prototypes.
The Handcraft line features hammer marks and subtle variations unique to handwork — each item has a different expression even among the same product. The Industrial line offers uniform quality and affordable pricing. Both reflect Mr. Kikuchi\'s design and commitment to brass material.

Q. Is it safe to eat with brass cutlery?

A. You can use it safely.
Lue\'s brass cutlery uses uncoated, uncoated brass as-is. At first, you may notice a scent unique to brass, but as you use it, an oxide film forms on the surface and it becomes almost unnoticeable. If concerned, please rinse once with lukewarm water before use.

Q. How do I care for it?

A. Just wash like ordinary tableware and wipe off the water.
Wash with mild detergent and a sponge, and thoroughly dry off the water. If moisture remains on brass, it can cause darkening or water stains. Enjoying the patina is the appeal of Lue\'s brass, but if you want to restore the golden color, polishing with a paste of vinegar and salt or with commercial metal polish will bring back the shine.