Kururi Works

Kururi works is an upcycling studio where rebirth things to other objects that would otherwise be thrown away. Through holding workshops, selling used materials and upcycled products, Kururi works aims to contribute to the sustainable society by expanding upcycling activities and making them more accessible and enjoyable.

The studio is operated by Takematsu Co., Ltd. (hereinafter “Takematsu”), a waste disposal and recycling company based in Kanazawa ward. Takematsu has long been disposing of unneeded goods as waste since its establishment in 1952, and wondered what it could do to address environmental problems. This is the background of Kururi works.

1. Upcycling discarded materials into new items with value

Upcycling discarded materials such as plastic umbrellas, expired credit cards and loyalty point cards into bags and accessories. It creates new value from waste. Moreover, the studio actively collaborates with other companies. For example, They callborated with Yokohama FC, a professional soccer club in Yokohama, and developed upcycled tote bags made from used banners.

2. Selling still-usable and unused household items as “Reusable materials”

In addition to upcycled products made at Kururi works, Takematsu has its reuse center “Ecokuru Factory” where sells still-usable and unused household items with affordable price. There are many people who like crafting and sawing, and want to make objects with environmentally friendly materials. Ecokuru Factory, as a circulation base, connects once unwanted or used items with those who need them.

3. Enlightenment upcycling activity through workshops

Kururi works hold events to discover new perspectives and mindset of caring for resources by enjoying upcycling waste. The studio holds events two times per month (reservation only.) In the past, they had a “painting with waste wood workshop” at a welfare facility. Furthermore, they had the lecture about the environment for junior high school students, and a workshop making andon (a paper-covered lantern) from discarded plastic umbrellas. They are welcome to do their activity outside their studio on request.