To celebrate our 10th anniversary, we’re taking a closer look at how Cohana tools are made and looking back on a decade of working alongside artisans across Japan.

The name Cohana comes from Konohanasakuya-hime, a goddess in Japanese mythology associated with cherry blossoms. From the beginning, we've wanted to create tools as beautiful as cherry blossoms in bloom, reflecting the timeless beauty of Japanese tradition.

Cohana’s tools are born from the traditional crafts and local industries that have been passed down through generations across Japan.

Our challenge has always been to preserve the function and character of traditional tools while reimagining them with colors and designs that feel at home in contemporary interiors and today’s world of handcraft. It has taken countless rounds of trial and error, with close collaboration and thoughtful conversations with our artisans at every step. 

For example, to ensure that a magnet embedded in a ceramic piece could hold needles securely, we explored ways to shave the delicate, unfired clay down to the absolute limit. The artisans fine-tuned their specialized jigs, creating prototype after prototype, drawing on the skill and intuition they had developed over many years.

For another product, the artisans paid close attention to even the tiniest gaps that appeared when fitting a component into carved wood. Using fine wood dust, they carefully filled each gap so seamlessly that it looked as though it had never been there. We were deeply impressed when we first saw the result, struck by both the exceptional skill of the artisans and the beauty of their craftsmanship.

Even when our ideas were difficult to realize using conventional methods, artisans across Japan took on each challenge with their years of experience, technical expertise, and, above all, a genuine passion for creating something truly special. They approached every detail with care and never compromised on quality.

Drawing on generations of blade-making expertise in Seki, Gifu, these charming mini scissors fit perfectly in the palm of your hand.

A Nambu ironware paperweight from Iwate, bringing together the timeless character of traditional ironwork and Cohana’s signature colors.

A needle rest from Awaji Island, Hyogo, celebrating the distinctive texture of Awaji roof tiles and the warmth of clay.

Each Cohana tool is carefully crafted by hand, one piece at a time, so the number we can regularly offer is limited. For our limited collections, we sometimes incorporate particularly special materials and techniques to create distinctive pieces.

From colors inspired by Japan’s changing seasons to the　craftsmanship reflected in every detail, every element matters to us. 

As we look to the future, we remain committed to carrying Japan’s exceptional craftsmanship forward and creating tools that bring a little joy and warmth to your everyday life.

In our next issue, we’ll look back on ten years of Life with Cohana, sharing the messages we’ve received from you over the years.

We look forward to seeing you in the next issue.