Kusune

Kusune is an essential component used in the process of tsukamaki. Kusune is a natural pine rosin based, non permanent adhesive, that helps your tsukaito stay in place. Without it, your tsukamaki will eventually begin to slip, no matter how tightly you initially tied it. After they dry, all-purpose glues won’t have the same longevity or repositionable quality as kusune, which never “dries”, and glues like cyanoacrylate adhesives can even damage your ito.
To use your kusune, it’s recommended to apply it to a sturdy dowel (not included)

To apply to a dowel, open the bag and peel it away from the kusune and then ball the slowly softening kusune around the end of a stick. If it cracks, wait a bit until it warms a little more or you can place it in a cup of warm water for a couple of minutes. Do not use excessive heat or you can alter the kusune’s properties.

To keep it more solid in warmer weather, it’s recommended to keep your kusune bagged and in a cool place like your refrigerator until needed. Take it out at least a few minutes before using and if necessary, warm it up slowly in your hands until tacky.

To use, lightly rub the underside of your ito (approx 1-2″) with the kusune until it leaves a light film of tacky residue. Do this every time and for each strand before crossing it over the tsuka. You don’t have to apply much pressure, just enough to keep contact. Do not coat the entire length of ito at once. Do not over apply or it can get on your fingers and your work. If kusune gets on your skin or other places you don’t want it, use some rubbing alcohol or spirits on a cloth or cotton swab to carefully remove it. Never apply spirits or other chemicals to the tsuka-ito.

Portions are approximately 15 grams each, which is enough for dozens of tsuka wraps.

Temporarily out of stock

Warm weather batch
approx. 15g Kusune $45

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Sorry, no international shipping
No refunds or returns. Please contact me with any questions before purchasing.