nobo Bowl Mutsumi Goto

Mutsumi Goto, a woodworking artist based in Miyota Town, Nagano Prefecture, handles every step of the process alone, from cutting the wood to applying lacquer.

This time, we will introduce the charm and recommended uses of Mutsumi Goto's work "nobo."

Compact and lightweight tableware.

"I personally use everything I create in daily life to confirm its usability," says Goto.

Wood is a material with low thermal conductivity, which allows warm food to stay warm and cold food to remain cold. Another key feature is that it doesn’t break when dropped. This makes it perfect not only for everyday meals but also for children's meals, camping, and picnics.

This time, we’ve selected three sizes: 3.5 sun (approx. 11 cm), 5 sun (approx. 15 cm), and 6 sun (approx. 18 cm).

At Goto's home, the 3.5 sun size is a favorite for eating yogurt or cereal every morning.

"The 5 sun and 6 sun sizes are not only used at home but are also convenient for carrying stacked together when eating lunch outdoors," he shared.

Some may worry about maintenance issues like stains or cracks with wooden tableware.

However, scratches and stains that naturally occur over time can become unique characteristics of your own piece. With regular simple care, the surface develops a sheen, turning it into a well-used and cherished item.

According to Goto, "Since these dishes are finished with oil, the natural oils from food and ingredients seep in over time, preventing stains and reducing maintenance needs. For cleaning, just use a soft cloth or sponge with water or warm water."

These dishes have a pleasant texture and complement both gentle-colored foods and vibrant vegetables. Even a simple cake looks adorable when placed on 'nobo.'

As mentioned earlier, they are also recommended for children. Enjoy the joy of nurturing your tableware through use.

Words from the creator: "Scratches and stains deepen attachment over time, making it uniquely yours." Interview with woodworking artist Mutsumi Goto

Tell us about the product we’re offering this time. How do you use the slightly deeper rimmed plate 'nobo'?

'Nobo' was designed as compact tableware that can be taken outdoors. I hope people will bring their familiar daily tableware to picnics or camping.

At our home, we use the 3.5 sun size daily for yogurt or cereal in the morning. Larger sizes (5 sun and 6 sun) are used at home but are also convenient for carrying stacked together when eating lunch outdoors.

What are the advantages of wooden tableware compared to ceramics?

Wood has low thermal conductivity and retains warmth well. This characteristic allows warm food to stay warm longer in winter and cold food to stay cool in summer. For example, ice cream melts slower when served in wooden dishes. At our home, wooden dishes are also used for shaved ice.

Additionally, wooden tableware has unique textures and colors. It can be enjoyed as an accent on your dining table alongside ceramic or glass dishes.

The beauty of wooden tableware is that minor scratches or stains deepen attachment over time, making it uniquely yours. It’s also durable enough for children to use without worry.

Before You Buy

- Each piece is handcrafted and unique in texture and color. Please enjoy their individual characteristics.

- Natural oils are generously applied during production. Over time, they develop a richer character through use; enjoy their aging process while maintaining them.

- Clean stains promptly after use and store them after thorough drying.

- Use soft sponges or cloths for washing. Prolonged soaking in water may cause cracks or warping.

- Detergents may strip oils; if not heavily soiled, washing with just water or warm water is sufficient.

- After washing with detergent, reapply a thin layer of salad oil or olive oil to maintain longevity.

- If dryness occurs, wipe with edible oil (e.g., salad oil or olive oil) using a cloth to restore moisture.

- Place thin paper between stacked pieces to prevent scratches.

- Returns due to differences in appearance or other customer preferences are not accepted.

Avoid These Practices

- Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrubbers as they may scratch the surface; opt for soft sponges instead.

- Do not use if cracks appear.

- Avoid prolonged soaking in water.

- Keep away from direct heat from heaters.

- Do not use in microwaves, dishwashers, or refrigerators.