Fuki-urushi (拭き漆 [fuki-urushi])

Fuki-urushi is “wipe lacquer”: urushi is applied thinly to a surface, worked in, and the excess is wiped off, leaving a very thin film. Repeated cycles build a natural sheen while keeping the underlying material’s texture visible. It is commonly used on wood to enhance grain and create a durable, understated finish.

Different types of urushi can be used for different results, even pigmented urushi, especially for first layer – pigment gets into all cavities and is visible after sanding, highlighting the grain in a creative way. To achieve high water resistance suki-sugurome MR (roll-mill) urushi can be used. Typically high water content raw urushi is used for fuki-urushi.