Kazuo Honma
Niigata, Japan

Founded in 1955, Kazuo Honma makes handcrafted straw trivets that fit and support hot vessels.  Made in the traditional method that has been passed down for generations on Sado Island.  Strictly using local materials, that naturally take on a darker patina with use.  Historically, they were only made during the farming season but they have gained popularity and now carefully, uniformly and firmly woven but skilled craftspeople.