Touch of Spring: Why "Shinogi" Texture Matters for Your Morning Coffee

Spring is around the corner. As the seasons change, we often want to refresh our homes. But instead of just changing colors, have you ever thought about changing the texture of your tableware?

In Japanese pottery, there is a traditional technique called "Shinogi" (hewing or ridges). It involves shaving the surface of the clay with a tool to create vertical ridge lines.

Today, discover why a "Shinogi" mug is the perfect companion for your spring mornings.

The rhythmic patterns are carved one by one, creating a flower-like appearance.

1. What is "Shinogi"?

"Shinogi" originally refers to the ridges on the side of a Japanese sword. In pottery, however, it refers to the beautiful, rhythmic lines scraped off the vessel's surface.

Depending on the glaze used, the glaze pools in the grooves and thins out on the ridges. This creates a natural, beautiful gradient of colors that a machine simply cannot replicate.

2. The Joy of Touch

The biggest difference between a standard mug and a Shinogi mug is how it feels in your hands.

When you wrap your hands around a warm cup of coffee or tea, your fingers naturally fit into the carved grooves. This tactile experience creates a sense of comfort and connection. It turns a quick caffeine fix into a mindful moment.

3. Playing with Light and Shadow

Shinogi ware is beautiful even when empty. Place it by a window in the morning sun. The ridges catch the light and cast soft shadows, giving the cup a three-dimensional look.

It brings a soft, earthy atmosphere to your table—perfect for welcoming the gentle light of spring.

Read More

• What is Glaze? Understanding the Soul of Ceramics - See how glaze interacts with texture.
• Small Plates, Big Joy - Explore more unique Japanese tableware styles.