[kronckew]

Originally Posted by Jeff Pringle

...and the best overview of the process I was able to find on the web is from Japan:
http://www.kougei.or.jp/english/crafts/0813/f0813.html
(click on 'production' for the step by step process)
...

very interesting website. i especially noted the bit where the deliberately oxidised steel is simmered for 30 minutes in tea for the tannins to stop the rust and blacken the oxide. i'll try that on my next rusty acquisition that is safe to immerse in tea......