Once Halloween is over, the town quickly becomes enveloped in the Christmas mood in November.
As various interior decorations and goods line the stores for Christmas, a workshop to create original Christmas wreaths will be held at Kurashiki Mokuzai Co., Ltd.
The wreaths will be made using hinoki wood shavings, resulting in a uniquely styled Christmas wreath.
What exactly is a Christmas wreath made from wood shavings like? And what led to the planning of this workshop? We will introduce the details of the workshop.
About the "Hinoki Wood Shavings Workshop"
The Hinoki Wood Shavings Workshop is an event hosted by Kurashiki Mokuzai Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as "Kurashiki Mokuzai").
In the workshop, participants will create original Christmas wreaths using hinoki wood shavings. The wreaths made from wood shavings have a natural texture that blends well in any setting.
Wood shavings are thin, flat, ribbon-like shavings that are produced when the surface of wood is planed. At Kurashiki Mokuzai, instead of simply discarding these shavings, we are reusing them through DIY and upcycling (the process of transforming unwanted items into something new).
The hinoki wood shavings used in the workshop have a rich aroma that makes you feel as if you are in a forest. Let's create an original wreath from scratch in a relaxing space.
The workshop will be held on November 17 (Monday), 19 (Wednesday), and 21 (Friday), with a capacity of 6 participants per session. The participation fee is 2,200 yen per person.
To participate, please fill out the application form or apply in person or by phone.
The session on November 17 has already reached capacity, so those wishing to participate should apply for the 19th (Wednesday) or 21st (Friday) sessions. Reservations are starting to fill up, so we recommend applying early.
We interviewed Sugimoto Hiromi from Kurashiki Mokuzai Co., Ltd. about the background of planning the workshop that reuses wood shavings.
Interview with Kurashiki Mokuzai
What was the background for planning the Hinoki Wood Shavings Workshop?
Sugimoto (no honorifics)
The idea was sparked by the desire to make use of high-quality wood shavings and allow people to experience the joy of creating.
We process wood daily at our factory, generating a large amount of various types of wood shavings. Normally, these would be discarded, but since they have a very pleasant aroma, we have been thinking for several years about how to reuse them.
While creating various items using wood shavings, we sold Christmas wreaths made from wood shavings at an event in 2024, and they sold out.
Christmas wreaths have a seasonal feel and are easy for anyone to make, so we wanted to create a workshop where participants can enjoy while experiencing the quality of wood, which led to this planning.
What is the process for making the Christmas wreath in the workshop?
Sugimoto
First, we will braid the wood shavings to create the base of the wreath.
Once the wreath is made, we will create parts like pom-poms from wood shavings, and finally add colorful parts and ribbons to complete it.
The size and texture of the wreath will change depending on the chosen wood shavings, so I believe unique works will be created. You can also modify the method to create New Year's decorations.
The estimated time required is about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
If there are any difficult tasks, we can also prepare parts, so please try to create a wreath that you are particular about.
What are the characteristics of the hinoki used in the workshop?
Sugimoto
The characteristic of hinoki is its fragrance. Even without any treatment, it has a faint aroma, but when wet, a relaxing scent spreads.
Additionally, the texture is also distinctive.
When hinoki wood shavings are wet, they become soft and can be shaped into various forms.
Moreover, since wood shavings come in various thicknesses and widths, you can choose one with your preferred texture, whether soft or sturdy.
Can children participate?
Sugimoto
Children can participate together with their guardians.
Even if they cannot braid, they can still choose wood shavings or cut parts with scissors, participating to the extent they are able.
Opportunities to touch hinoki are rare, so I hope this will be a chance for them to experience the aroma and texture of wood.
Additionally, the wood showroom where the event will be held has a kids' space, so feel free to visit.
What kind of people would you recommend this event to?
Sugimoto
Of course, those who love DIY and wood, but I would also like to invite those who have no interest at all to participate.
The wood showroom has a variety of wood scraps and cat pellets for sale. I would be happy if people could discover the charm of Kurashiki Mokuzai, thinking, "I didn't know such products existed" or "I can buy here besides home improvement stores."
I hope this workshop will be a chance for participants to feel the charm of DIY and wood.
Finally, please give a message to the readers.
Sugimoto
Opportunities to directly touch wood may be rare.
I hope you can enjoy making Christmas wreaths while being healed by the fragrance and supple texture of hinoki.
We look forward to your participation.
Conclusion
The aroma of hinoki may be familiar through mists and bath additives, but the scent from wood shavings is fresher and more soothing.
A Christmas wreath made from wood shavings will likely create a relaxing atmosphere just by being displayed in a room.
At the Kurashiki Mokuzai wood showroom, Christmas wreaths made from wood shavings are also for sale. Even those who do not participate in the workshop may enjoy visiting just to see the warm wooden items.
This workshop, perfect for the upcoming Christmas season, is highly recommended for anyone interested to participate.
Hinoki Wood Shavings Workshop Data
| Name | Hinoki Wood Shavings Workshop |
|---|---|
| Dates | November 17 (Monday), 19 (Wednesday), 21 (Friday) 2025 Each session from 10:00 AM to around 11:30 AM |
| Location | 1000-1 Nakajima, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture, Wood Showroom |
| Participation Fee (including tax) | 2,200 yen per person (including materials) |
| Website | Kurashiki Mokuzai Co., Ltd. |
