96 [KURO] Large fork (rough)
Reload Store

Simple and warm black dyed cutlery from Tsubame-Sanjo

The company boasts a rare "stainless steel black dyeing" technique that has been developed over 60 years in the manufacturing town of Sanjo, Niigata Prefecture, and is an application of the iron black dyeing technique.

It's the perfect size to use when eating.
The matte surface is finished with a black dye.
It has a matte and rustic feel.

[What is black dyeing of metal?]
I think very few people understand what "black dyeing of metal" means.
Dyeing metal? Dyeing it black?
Yes, as the name suggests, "black metal dyeing" is a technique in which metal is immersed in a liquid to dye it black, just like dyeing fabric.

▶️How is that done?
The black dye solution is boiled, the metal is added, and a chemical reaction occurs that turns the metal black.
During this process, a film called an oxide film forms on the surface of the metal, turning it black.
This black oxide film is simply called "black rust."
The common red rust makes metal brittle, but this "black rust" does not brittle the metal and also prevents red rust.
In addition, the black coloring prevents reflections and improves the design.

▶️What is the difference between painting?
While painting is applied as a top coat to a product, black dyeing discolors the entire product, including the inner surface, to a thickness of 1 micron (1/1000 mm).
To put it in perspective, painting is like "makeup" and black dyeing is like "tanning."
Since there is no change in the dimensions of the object, it can also be used on precision parts whose dimensions should not be changed.
Although the coating is very thin and there may be some unevenness in some areas, it is possible to achieve a finish that brings out the natural texture of the metal.
Shiny metals turn into shiny blacks, and matte metals turn into matte blacks.
The black dye liquid changes daily, and takes on a variety of different expressions depending on the item and the processing method.
Although it does not have the uniform beauty of painted finishes, it has a unique beauty that can only be achieved with black dyeing, and the interesting thing about it is that it changes depending on the person using it.

[Precautions when using black dye]
●Black soot may remain, but this is iron oxide produced by a chemical reaction and does not affect the human body.
●Due to slight unevenness in the black dyeing, each piece has a different appearance.
●There may be traces of jigs or dripping liquid left behind from the manufacturing process.
Depending on the ingredients that come into contact with the black dye, a chemical reaction may occur, resulting in the appearance of metallic specks.
●If oil or moisture remains, it can cause stains and rust.
●Rubbing with a hard or sharp object may cause the black dye to fade.
●Leaving dirt on the product can cause discoloration and rust.

[Notes on tableware products]
●When using for the first time, wash gently with a sponge dipped in dishwashing detergent and rinse thoroughly.
●For eating only. Do not use for cooking.
●Do not use in a microwave.
●Do not soak in a washtub, etc.
●Can be used in the dishwasher.