How to Hand-Carve Your Mamezara Dish
Hand-carve your own wooden Mamezara (small dish) using the included carving tool. Wooden tableware has a natural warmth and is perfect for serving biscuits, sweets, and small treats.
The kit includes a work board to help secure the dish while carving, making the process safer and more stable. Carving tools are commonly introduced in Japanese schools from around age 10.
1. Sketch Your Design
Using a pencil, sketch the overall shape, size, thickness, and any decorative details you would like to carve into the dish.
2. Set Up the Work Board
Attach the work board securely to the edge of a table.
This helps stabilise the workpiece, protects the table surface, and improves safety while carving
3. Carve the Dish
Place the wooden dish blank on the work board and begin carving the surface using the carving tool.
- Carve to your preferred depth.
- Add patterns, initials, or decorative details.
- You may also carve a commemorative date or initials on the underside to create a truly unique piece.
4. Sand the Surface
Start with the No.150 sandpaper to refine the shape and remove rough areas.
Then use the No.240 and No.400 sandpaper to smooth and finish the surface.
5. Apply the Finish
Apply the included beeswax to one cloth and rub it evenly into the wooden dish.
6. Wipe and Finish
Remove any excess wax with the second cloth.
Your handmade wooden dish is now complete.
Important Notes
- Recommended age: 10 years and over.
- Adult supervision is required for children.
- The finished item is intended for use as a wooden plate only.
- Do not use the carving tools without proper care and supervision.
Care & Safety Instructions
- Take care when carving to avoid injury
- Wear protective gloves where possible
- Keep hands clear of the blade's cutting path
- If the surface becomes worn, lightly sand and refinish with natural oil (e.g. vegetable oil)
- Regular maintenance will help your spoon last for years to come
- Age Range: 10 years old+
