Contact Kelsie

Hello! Feel free to contact me if you:

  • would like information about kintsugi classes
  • are organizing an event like a conference, retreat, or workshop
  • represent a religious group or non-profit organization
  • or have any other questions for me.

My email is to the right (or below on mobile). I look forward to hearing from you!

I may be slow to respond sometimes.

FAQ

Where are you located? Will you travel for classes?

I currently reside in the Utah County area, where I'm more available to offer classes and workshops. Traveling may be an option depending on circumstances; the logistics usually make more sense for larger events. Ask me if I'm available to travel!

Do I need to be a trauma survivor to take a class?

Not at all! The beauty of kintsugi can be appreciated by anyone. My classes are available to any women and girls who are interested.

How do I sign up for a kintsugi class?

Simply email me and let me know you're interested and your general area! If you'd like an invite for my next scheduled class once there is enough interest in your area, sign up for email updates. If you have a group of about 4-8 willing to participate, we can choose a time and place that works (this can make a great ladies night, if you want to host and invite your friends). If you still need a group, start asking friends and neighbors if they want to join!

Do you teach the traditional method from Japan?

I do not currently teach the traditional method. It is something I am learning and hope to eventually offer classes for.

Traditional kintsugi requires materials such as urushi, genuine gold powder, etc. This method also needs a specific climate for the repairs to set properly and can take months to complete. For practical reasons, my workshops use a modernized version based on the ancient Japanese practice of kintsugi. With this method the focus lies on the symbolism. This technique can be accomplished in one or two sessions.

Do you do events for church groups? (Relief Society, Young Womens, etc.)

Yes! I set aside time to offer a select number of free workshops per year for church groups (the ward covers the cost of materials for their group, but there are no charges for teaching the class). For these workshops I integrate Christian principles within the symbolism that we will discuss. I share how the beautiful symbolism behind kintsugi can be related to the healing power of Christ and why it has found a place in my own journey. Then there will be a hands-on learning experience where each participant can practice a modernized version of kintsugi. If you want your ward to experience this, speak to your activities committee and reach out to get your group added to the calendar!

Can I bring my own broken vessel I want to repair?

Yes, I've had participants do this before. I can inspect it to assess whether it's compatible with our methods and your skill level. Remember that kintsugi is an imperfect repair that highlights scars, rather than restoring a piece to its original form; and materials used in our kintsugi methods are not food-safe, so it will become a display item. If you do bring yours, you can still choose to use the provided pottery. Using your own vessel does not affect the price of the class.

Does the two-part class need to be back-to-back?

No, the classes can be more than one night apart, but the plaster needs at least overnight to fully set.