Manufacturing process
Singing Ring is made by utilizing many traditional Japanese craftsmanship techniques that have been cultivated over many years, and through the cooperation of each craftsman. Singing Ring was finally created after repeated prototypes and thorough attention to detail, without compromising on the highest quality.
1.Melting the raw materials
First, we melt the main component copper and then add other types of metals and silicon to create a special alloy. This secret ratio which enables the highest durability had been passed down from generation to generation.
2. Moulding
Next, the special alloy will be poured into a mould and slowly cooled down. We take time making one mould for one bowl and break it each time. This moulding process “Namagata Izo” is qualified as a traditional Japanese craft making method.
3.Polishing and Tuning
The craftsman hand-carves it one by one. As they grind them, they use a tuning meter to perfect the shape. It takes up to a few weeks to grind, sand, and tuning. Up to this point is the method taken as traditional copperware making.
4.Oil coating
In order to prevent corrosion, they coat it with oil and then deliver it to the craftsman who burns the Urushi lacquer coating on to the bowl. From this point forward, the process for lacquerware will be taken.
5.Foundation application
They remove all the grease they applied to the bowl for rust prevention and dry the surface. Then they dip the bowl in a special solution. This step is called “foundation” and it anchors Urushi easier on to the bowl.
6.Urushi lacquer coating
On the heated bowl, they apply Urushi lacquer and burn it on, and coat it again, then fire it in the oven. This process goes through the base, middle, and finishing. It's called “Kintai-Urushi Method,” and is one of the finest craftsmanship.
7.Beeswax
And then we polish the bowl with a high quality natural beeswax and finish. Singing Ring will be sent to Sion Inc. for a final check-up. Those bowls that have passed the test will be sent to the laser marking company. Otherwise we melt them and recreate again.
8.Laser marking
The original symbol will be engraved on the front, and logo and serial number on the back. The silicon that’s melted during this process will cover the logo and it will prevent the base metal from rusting and it keeps the bowl high-quality and durable.
9.Finish!
As you can see, it takes about 3 months to complete one bowl after all these careful processes.
Original Sticks
The sticks and accessories are also made by Japanese traditional craftsmanship.
Sticks
Deerskin and zelkova.This sick is handstitched one by one. In order to bring out the best sound quality, we researched and prototyped a number of times trying different materials, stiffness, length, thickness, different leathers, and way of wrapping to create the optimal stick to play the Singing Ring.
Shikkoku Bag
The original bags and cushions are hand made with “Awa Shijira textile,” by a traditional Japanese craftsman.
Luli Bag
The carrying bag and cushion for Luli are made of luxurious brocade fabric.
please note
Singing Ring® is a magnificent work of art that is the result of meticulous design and the highest level of craftsmanship from Japan.
At Sion.Inc., we hope to spread the beautiful sound and the wonderful craftsmanship of Japanese instruments to the world.
Singing Ring® is a registered product of Sion Inc., and is not an agency. It can only be purchased through the online shop of Sion Inc. Please note that products purchased through other websites or methods are not genuine.