“F-TRAD” is a project that reinterprets seven of Fukui Prefecture’s esteemed traditional crafts (Echizen lacquerware, Echizen washi paper, Wakasa agate work, Wakasa lacquerware, Echizen forged blades, Echizen ware, and Echizen chest) to suit modern lifestyles. The latest collection from this initiative is the result of collaboration between traditional craftsmen from Fukui and designers based outside the prefecture. Now in its third phase, the project brought together six teams, resulting in the creation of 13 new items. The products, developed through designers repeated visits to the production regions and their collaboration with craftsmen to explore the history, techniques, current state, and challenges of each craft, embody the envisioned future of these traditional crafts.

Each piece is a masterpiece that seamlessly blend sophisticated craftsmanship with designs suited to modern lifestyles. The F-TRAD official website offers these products for purchase and also features stories of their development through conversations between craftsmen and designers.

◾️ “F-TRAD” New products
Echizen lacquerware “NON / Nibisai”: Tomiyo Soumei, Haruna Soumei (Somei Lacquerware Store) × Kairi Eguchi (KAIRI EGUCHI STUDIO)
Echizen lacquerware “NIVI”: Tomohiko Tsujita (Tsujita Lacquer Shop) × Kosho Ueshima (TIDS)
Echizen lacquerware “keshiki”: Naoto Tsuchida (Tsuchinao Shikki) × Shuhei Shibayama (Zelt)
Echizen washi paper “TETON / Echizen Sukiko / KIOKU”: Satoshi Shimizu (Shimizu Shikoh) × Yasuhiro Horiuchi (TRUNK DESIGN)
Echizen washi paper “harukami rynka”: Haruo Yanase, Sho Yanase (Yanase Washi) × Takeshi Nishio (DAYS.)
Echizen forged blades “sō”: Shinsuke Kamo, Ryuji Sawada (Kamo Hamono) × Ryoichi Ishigami

◾️ Related information
F-TRAD official website
https://f-trad.com/