1 December 2023
Ominato, Five Ways
If you've ever enjoyed the intricacies of a puzzle or admired the beauty of a wood-frame structure, we'd like to introduce you to Kumiko woodworking. This technique requires incredible precision because the thin wooden pieces that create the patterns are joined together without the use of nails or adhesive.
The artisans at Ominato Bunkichi are masters of this craft, and we are offering three pieces from their striking Wazen series. Made of Akita cedar, which is native to Japan, these pieces are as durable as they are beautiful — and their distinctive designs make them something you'll be delighted to put on display. But they are also multifaceted and with some imagination, you can utilize them in many different ways that complement their extraordinary elegance.
Here are some of our ideas to inspire you.
Contents
- As a party platter
- As a tea tray
- As a coaster
- As a wall decoration
- As a display platform
As a party platter
Using the Ominato Bunkichi Hemp Leaf Wazen Kumiko Tray L
This is the original intention of these trays, and it's a classic, beautiful centerpiece or service tray at any table. Place bowls on top, or utilize the easy-to-clean acrylic plate and put food directly on there. From finger foods to sushi, there's no limit to the ways you can decorate your setting with these beautiful, handcrafted pieces.
As a tea tray
Using the Ominato Bunkichi Hemp Leaf Wazen Kumiko Tray S
Upgrade your tea time. The ornate pattern and grid structure offers a striking background to any teapots and cups. The small tray is just the right size for an individual-sized teapot and cup, while the large tray can sit in the middle of your tea party, holding a larger pot and multiple cups. It's a simple addition to your tea set that elevates it exponentially.
As a coaster
Using the Ominato Bunkichi Hemp Leaf Wazen Kumiko Coaster
Pick up any number of these elegant coasters to use as the finishing touch to your place setting for a dinner party, event, or even just to spruce up your everyday dining. It has a silicone coating to make it waterproof, and the acrylic tray on top is frosted, creating a unique visual as droplets fall off a glass. The coaster smells of the Akita cedar it's made from, adding even more to the atmosphere.
As a wall decoration
Using the Ominato Bunkichi Hemp Leaf Wazen Kumiko Tray L
Freshen up your living space, or add to your existing gallery wall by using this beautiful item as a decoration. It's incredibly lightweight due to the wood used, and it has soft foam feet on the bottom to help protect the surface. You can place it on a flat surface and set it upright, leaning against the wall to use the pattern as a unique background to your other items. Or give it a lift by placing push pins where you'd like on a wall, then use the gridded pattern to hang with ease.
As a display platform
Using the Ominato Bunkichi Hemp Leaf Wazen Kumiko Tray S
Enhance the surroundings of your favorite items by giving them a platform that complements them perfectly. The acrylic plate on top provides a gentle surface for even delicate items to sit on. And the soft visual of the cedar wood adds warmth to the aesthetic of anything you place on top — wooden, ceramic, glass, and more.
There you have it! Five ways to include this stunning series of wooden wares into your everyday routine as well as your special events. What unique ways will you find to use them?
