People say you can tell a lot about someone by what they carry in their bag. We say: look at their tools.

At Kuro’s Workshop, our tools are more than just equipment — they’re trusted sidekicks, well-worn companions, and occasionally, the source of colorful language when misplaced. They tell a story about how we work, what we value, and yes, who we are.

So today, we’re letting a few of our favorite tools speak for themselves — or rather, letting them drop their best pickup lines. If our tools had Tinder bios, here’s what they’d say:

Tomomi’s Tools (The Book Conservator’s Kit)

The Tweezers

I see the threads you miss. I’m here for the delicate work — and I don’t flinch.

The Stipple Brush

Small but mighty. I know how to mend the tears — literally. Let’s patch things up with a little washi and a lot of care.

The Bone Folder

Quiet strength. Precision creases. No drama, just clean folds and steady support.

The Palette Knife (a.k.a Mr. Reeves)

Classy. Smooth. Always the right angle. I lift with grace and never leave a mark.

The Micro Spatula

Double-ended and full of finesse. I know how to work the tight spots — and I never rush the job.

Joyce's Tools (The Bookbinder’s Kit)

The Scalpel

I don’t make small talk. Just small, clean cuts. Swipe right if you like edges sharp and corners crisp.

The Brass Triangle

Always on point. Old soul. Geometry is my game, and I never let things slide out of line.

The Merry Flat Pliers

Not technically scissors, but I pull my weight. Literally. I’m here when your fingers aren’t quite enough — no shame in asking for help.

The Incra Ruler

Obsessively precise. If you measure twice, cut once, and still doubt yourself — we’ll get along just fine.

The Bone Folder

You’ve got options, but I’m the one that lives on your desk. Trust me, there’s a reason.

We could go on. (Don’t even get us started on the awl.) But here’s the thing: tools don’t just shape the books — they shape us too.

We come from different sides of the bench, but we meet in the middle: a shared respect for the book as an object and an offering. Tomomi’s tools help preserve stories. The tools I use help prepare space for them. Kuro’s Workshop exists at that meeting point — where the past is honored, the present is handmade, and the future gets stitched one page at a time.