How Hand-Painted Manhole Covers in Japan Are Made

Process X went inside a Japanese foundry to document how their colorful storytelling manhole covers are crafted using a combination of automation and artistry. The metal is first melted, poured into molds, and sanded down. After the cover is cooled, the surface is treated with a protective coating and colored in by hand.

Amazing art work on the street! Manhole mass production process.Japanese Manhole cover

Lori Dorn
Lori Dorn

Lori is a Laughing Squid Contributing Editor based in New York City who has been writing blog posts for over a decade. She also enjoys making jewelry, playing guitar, taking photos and mixing craft cocktails.