For us as craftspeople, repair is not simply a service—it’s part of our craft. We aim not to erase the time that has passed, but to honor it: preserving the unique character of a used piece, while restoring the item so it can continue to be cherished.

At our Nishiarai Workshop, the rhythmic hum of sewing machines fills the air.
“As you use a product, it becomes part of your body and life. Having something in harmony with your lifestyle brings happiness. Our job is to help those relationships last,” says Toshiaki Onishi, head of the repair department.

Most items that arrive have been used for over five years. Choosing repair over replacement is itself a sign of attachment. That’s why, Onishi continues, the aim is not to return an item to its original state, but to preserve its history while restoring it to a condition that can be enjoyed for years to come.

Each owner’s requests differ—some want a full restoration, others a partial repair, and budgets vary as well. To meet these needs, we offer a range of repair options for customers to choose from.

The repair station shares a floor with reception for smooth collaboration. Four dedicated craftspeople work here.
“Leather can last for decades if its cared for, so repair is a natural part of its journey. Our role is to reassure customers that their piece can always be brought back to life,” says Maru Yasuyuki, a craftsman with 25 years of experience.

This repair involved replacing the lining and hardware while preserving elements like zippers and tags. The bag’s original fabric was no longer available. "If it doesn't exist, make it," Maru says, tracing the old lining to make a new pattern—adjusting for the leather’s natural stretch over time.

For durability, Maru finishes the piece by hand-sewing with a waxed thread. His workstation is filled with tools customized to his needs, like a hammer with rounded edges and a mat padded with soft leather.

“Ideal repair, to me,” Maru shares, “is when you can’t tell it was ever repaired. Of course it’s for the customer, but it’s also satisfying to see the skills I’ve acquired over the years brought to life.”

This bag was brought in through our in-store Support Counter. When the customer received the repaired item, they said: “It feels like it’s had a makeover. I even took it out today right away.”

Repair is also built into our design process. When developing new products, repair staff assess prototypes and advise designers on potential weak points. Years later, when pieces return, they provide fresh insights—closing the loop between making, using, and repairing.

Our goal is not only to create items that last, but ones you’ll want to keep using. “Make, use, repair—and let the insight feed future creations. This cycle is Tsuchiya Kaban’s strength, and one we cherish,” says Maru.