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Chopsticks that will make you forget about traditional utensils

Hanataba sticks. Photo: Nendo

The endless beauty of Japanese design is also hidden in the form and functionality of cutlery or so-called chopsticks. Obama is a small town in Fukui Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its superbly designed lacquered chopsticks, reputed to be stunningly beautiful and the hardest in Japan.

Manufacturer of chopsticks Nendo is in cooperation with Hashikuro to Matuskan and using traditional techniques, designed a new, modern set of chopsticks that preserves the traditional note.

Hanataba
While rounded chopsticks can be a little too slippery or slippery in the hands, and rectangular chopsticks can be uncomfortable to use, Matuskan has struck a golden mean with the Hanataba collection. It increased the surface of the thumbs and thus improved the grip. This resulted in the appearance of a natural shape with a visible cross-section in the form of pleats. Looking at the cross-section, they remind us of flowers, actually a bouquet of flowers.

Hanataba sticks. Photo: Nendo
Hanataba sticks. Photo: Nendo

Jikaoki
The tips of the Jikaoki chopsticks are carefully sculpted so that they do not touch the surface when placed on the table while not eating. This also keeps the table clean when the chopsticks are put away.

Jikaoki sticks. Photo: Nendo
Jikaoki sticks. Photo: Nendo

Sukima
There are many chopsticks available with different patterns, but only one is Sukima. Matsukan designed the sticks to create a matching pattern between the sticks when placed together. He drew inspiration from a set of playing cards that are stacked side by side. And thus, by stacking sticks, he created a picture of one of the symbols on the cards - heart, spade, diamond and cross. As an interesting feature, you can mix and match them. To maintain their strength, these delicate wooden sticks have an aluminum core to prevent them from breaking.

Sukima sticks. Photo: Nendo
Sukima sticks. Photo: Nendo

Kamiai
How do you never lose your pair of chopsticks? Kamiai chopsticks have a built-in magnet that allows them to come together and stick together upon contact. To prevent them from coming together while you eat, a magnet is built into the outer sides of the sticks.

Kamiai sticks. Photo: Nendo
Kamiai sticks. Photo: Nendo

Udukuri
These chopsticks were made using a special Udukuri process. The surface of the wood here is not smooth, but has the appearance of scraped, brushed wood. In the process of re-varnishing and polishing, they further emphasize the structure of the wood. This combination gives the final look of a natural wood pattern and an organic surface.

Udukuri sticks. Photo: Nendo
Udukuri sticks. Photo: Nendo

Rassen
Since we don't think of chopsticks as a pair, Rassen chopsticks work as one. While you eat, they are separated, and after the meal, you can easily put them together.

Udukuri sticks. Photo: Nendo
Udukuri sticks. Photo: Nendo

All sets of chopsticks will be available in Japan from spring, but it is not yet known when they will reach Europe. Until then, take a closer look at them in the gallery.

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