Kintsugi 金継ぎ
Kintsugi is the Japanese art of repairing broken ceramics with lacquer and powdered gold, so the break becomes part of the piece.
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Real method or quick method
Traditional kintsugi uses urushi, a lacquer made from tree sap. Each layer cures over days, so a full repair takes weeks. Short classes use a faster-setting substitute, or cover only the final steps. Neither is dishonest, but the listings do not always say which you are getting.
Ask before you book
Which lacquer do you use? Ask whether it is natural urushi or a quick-setting substitute.
Can I eat from the piece afterward? Pieces repaired with synthetic materials are often for display only. Most listings don't say either way.
Is there anything extra to pay on the day? Larger plates, bowls, real gold powder and upgrades can cost extra.
Do I need to worry about my skin? Urushi contains the same compound as poison ivy and some people get a rash. Studios provide gloves. Mention any allergy when you book.