Kanaamitsuji 

Photography by Kanaamitsuji

"The metal wire weaving techniques were passed down from my grandfather, the first generation, and my father founded "Kanaamitsuji" on his own. I'm the second generation and joined the business 24 years ago" - Toru Tsuji

What do you collect?

I’ve been to around 20 countries and collected crafts from each place. Since my work is making everyday tools by weaving wire mesh, I’m really into collecting crafts from around the world that people actually use in their daily lives.

How are you inspired by nature?

Being in nature really helps spark new ideas and inspires me about the future. When I’m deeply focused on crafting or working on fine details, I often don’t notice how tense my body and mind become. But spending time outdoors helps me relax and brings out better creativity in my work.

Where in the wold excited you most?

I’d say California, because it’s the place where you can really feel diversity the most.

How are you inspired by the past?

When I look at old wire mesh products, I don’t see them simply as “things from the past” through a modern lens. Instead, I try to view them as “items of their own time.” This helps me understand the historical background and the mindset of that era.

That perspective gives me a clear direction in deciding what I need to create now and what kind of products I should focus on making in the future.

Can you share with us the history of Kanaamitsuji? 

The metal wire weaving techniques were originally passed down from my grandfather, the first generation, and my father founded “Kanaamitsuji” on his own. I’m the second generation and joined the business 24 years ago.

In my father’s time, we mainly focused on making professional-use utensils for chefs of Kyoto cuisine and traditional Japanese sweets. In my generation, we’ve shifted more toward creating products for everyday household use. At the same time, I’ve been exploring new possibilities for wire mesh by creating things like lampshades and accessories—products that add a more innovative touch to traditional crafts.

Can you share with us the history of Kyo-kanaami? 

The history of wire mesh in Japan is said to date back to the Heian period, around 1,000 to 1,200 years ago. At that time, it was used to make tools and implements for shrines, temples, and members of the nobility.

During the Edo period (about 422 to 158 years ago), the craft evolved into a profession known as hariganeshi, or wire craftsmen. As society changed, wire mesh tools gradually became more diverse and commonly used in everyday life.

Here in Kyoto, where the culture of Kyoto cuisine and traditional Japanese sweets runs deep, wire mesh tools developed alongside these culinary traditions and came to be known as Kyo-kanaami—Kyoto wire mesh.

Over time, the demands of history, technique, and craftsmanship have shaped the tools we make, and that spirit continues to live on in our work today.