A sake cup processed by Takakuwa Seisakusho (left: cross section)

Takakuwa Seisakusho (Ota-ku, Tokyo, President: Eiji Takakuwa, 03-3731-4647) is engaged in spatula forming of various metals. The company is now producing titanium drinking cups for the general public using a new technology called "Hitohira-shibori," which is a more advanced version of spatula shibori. Hera-shibori is a three-dimensional processing technique in which a spatula is pressed against a metal plate while it is being rotated. The company's uniquely developed single-piece buckle makes it possible to form double-structured vessels from a single metal plate. Generally, double-layered metal vessels are made by welding. President Takakuwa says, "At first glance, it's hard to tell the difference between our products and others, but when we explain our technology, people often find value in it. (May 16, 2019, Takakuwa Works, Ota-ku, Tokyo; Credit: Nikkan Kogyo Shimbun / Kyodo News Images)