Iron bottle opener from northern Japan

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From northern Japan, the craft of cast iron dates to the middle of the 17th century, when a master arrived from Kyoto to make iron pots for the tea ceremony. I have one and use it every day.

Here’s something else made from the same material and technique, a simple and elegant bottle opener of cast iron glazed with urushi, a black lacquer that prevents rusting.

Also, on Sunday, Tortoise is hosting a fundraiser for Japan’s earthquake and tsunami victims, a stretching class from staff member Natsuo, a ballet instructor. 10 to 11:30 a.m. Sunday, $20, with the entire fee donated to earthquake relief. To sign up, e-mail: sumi@tortoiselife.com.

Iron bottle opener round, $22, from Tortoise General Store in Venice at 1208 Abbot Kinney Blvd.; (310) 314-8448; www.tortoisegeneralstore.com.

--S. Irene Virbila