Kuksa Wooden Mug (Mug handle)

Kuksa

A Kuksa (or Guksi (Sami), Kasa (Swedish))  is a traditional wooden cup that originated in northern Scandinavia, particularly among the Sami people. As a cultural artifact from Lapland many consider them to be a symbol of unity between people and the wilderness. Native Nordic peoples, like the Saami, have used kuksas for thousands of years.

There are many kuksa designs, sizes, and makers. You can find tiny little kuksas or ones big enough to use as a soup bowl. The most common size is around one cup. It is typically carved from a single piece of wood and has a curved shape with a handle. Kuksas were traditionally used for drinking hot beverages, such as coffee or tea, and are still used for this purpose by outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and hunters in the Nordic countries.

The wood used to make kuksas is typically from birch trees, which are abundant in the region. The wood is carefully selected and then carved using traditional hand tools, such as knives and axes. The finished kuksa is then treated with a food-safe oil or wax to protect it and make it easier to clean.

Kuksas are prized for their simplicity, durability, and natural beauty. They are often decorated with traditional Sami patterns and can be passed down from generation to generation as family heirlooms.

The aesthetic advantages to using wooden cups seem obvious, however using a sustainable and biodegradable material also benefits the environment. When properly looked after a kuksa will last a lifetime.

The Sami people.

The Sami people, also known as the Sámi or Saami, are an indigenous group of people who inhabit the northern regions of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. They are believed to be one of the oldest indigenous groups in Europe and have a distinct culture, language, and way of life that is closely tied to the Arctic environment in which they live.

Traditionally, the Sami people were semi-nomadic, relying on reindeer herding, fishing, and hunting for their livelihoods. They have a rich and unique cultural heritage that includes traditional crafts, music, and storytelling. Despite facing significant challenges and discrimination over the years, the Sami people have maintained their traditions and continue to be an important part of the cultural diversity of northern Europe.

Today, the Sami people are recognized as indigenous people by the governments of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. They have several political and cultural organizations that work to protect their rights, promote their culture, and preserve their traditional way of life.

Features:

• Not as fragile as pottery and can stand more knocks.
• Wood is a good insulator so liquids will stay warmer, whilst not burning your hands.
• In sub-zero temperatures touching metals should be avoided so wooden cups are safer.
• You can place a wooden cup on a forest floor and its low centre of gravity will make it more stable and its pot-bellied shape helps it to settle into the floor rather than on it.
• These cups can be attached to a lanyard on your belt for easy carrying.

Maintenance:

• Hand wash only. Not suitable for use in a dishwasher, microwave, dryer or oven.
• Wash after each use with a soft cloth.
• Occasionally coat the mug with olive oil to prevent the wood from drying out.
• Do not immerse in boiling water or leave liquids in it for long periods
• Do not use bleach or strong cleaning liquids.
• Do not rub with harsh abrasive cleaning tools.

Specifications (Approximate measurements) Dimensions:

• Height: 6.2cm
• Diameter (At rim): 7cm
• Total length (Handle and across cup): 14cm
• Weight: 150g
• Capacity: 130ml (568ml = 1 Pint)