Melanie is headed to Japan!

Hello, fellow makers and design lovers! I am SO excited to share with everyone that I will be traveling to Japan this October for the FIRST time ever! I was invited to visit by tool manufactures, Michihamono back in 2020. Alas, we all know how that year turned out!

It took a little bit longer to re-plan this trip but I’m beyond excited to share the details of my upcoming trip—it’s going to be the perfect blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and creative inspo. I can't wait to give you a sneak peak of what I will be doing and to take you along!

First stop? Tokyo, where I’ll be teaching a spoon carving workshop on October 26th in collaboration with my manufactures Michihamono, who make the amazing tools we use. Spoon carving is one of those crafts that feels so simple yet endlessly rewarding. There’s something very meditative about transforming a block of wood into something beautiful and functional with just your hands. And now, I get to share that experience in Tokyo—one of the world’s most exciting and inspiring cities! Whether you’re a beginner or have a few projects under your belt, this workshop will be all about embracing the process, imperfections, and the joy of creating something unique.

If interested in attending the class, you can sign up on this form here or shoot us an email at hello@melanieabrantes.com.

After soaking up all the creative energy in Tokyo, I’ll be heading to Miki City on November 2nd for the renowned Miki City Hardware Festival. This event is a dream for anyone who’s obsessed with tools (guilty!). Miki is famous for its long tradition of toolmaking, particularly woodworking tools, so this festival is like a pilgrimage for makers. I’ll be there with my manufacturers, and we’re even doing a tour of their factory, which I’m really excited about. Seeing the craftsmanship and precision behind the tools we use every day is going to be an unforgettable experience. I can’t wait to share all the details!

Image of the Miki Tool Festival from Japan Travel in 2012

At the Miki Tool Festival, master artisans come together to showcase their work, and it’s so much more than just functional tools—it’s about the artistry, tradition, and dedication that goes into every piece. For me, this festival is a chance to connect with the legacy of craftsmanship that inspires so much of what we do at MAD. It’s all about learning from the best and bringing that expertise back to my own practice.

Bowl Carving Kit we made in collaboration with Michihamono.

This trip is a big full-circle moment for me—teaching a craft I love, learning from the masters in the tool world, and exploring the factory where some of the best tools are made. And of course, I’ll be sharing all of it with you! Follow along on social media for behind-the-scenes peeks, from my workshop in Tokyo to the bustling aisles of the Miki Tool Festival, and even a sneak peek of the factory tour.

Michihamo's owner Yuko-san and her daughter came to visit me in SF in 2019!

Stay tuned for all the excitement ahead, and as always, happy carving! ✨