WORK PROCESS
Our Hanko-Making Process
Learn about the skilled craftsmanship and steps involved in creating each of our hanko.

<KANJI Name Conversion>
Based on the words you provide that
represent yourself, we will select
appropriate kanji from the 2,997 characters
approved for use in Japanese names to
convey the meaning you want for your name.
<Initial Rough Draft>
If you choose the SQUARE shape for your seal...
Taiseki writes the chosen kanji to be engraved using pencil and graph paper to make a block copy.
Placing all the kanji beautifully is another key for a good "hanko."
<Computer Adjustment>
The block copy is scanned and adjusted with a computer to make the data to be sent to a client.

<SEAL IMPRESSION>
The seal impression can be used for a design
of a kanji tattoo and for digital use.
Your seal impression will be provided via e-mail
in JPEG/PNG file.
<MATERIAL>
Black Saika (SQUARE) 15mm / 0.6inch is chosen.
<Name Engraving>
Engrave the material roughly with
a computer-controlled machine.
<Smoothing>
Smoothen the roughly engraved surface
by rubbing. Smoothing the face of a hanko is
harder than it looks.
If not done evenly, the seal won't press properly.
It takes a trained eye and steady hands
to get it just right.

<Applying the Red Ink>
Apply the red ink for finishing work.
The process of applying red ink to a hanko is quite challenging. It requires careful control of the ink amount to ensure a clear and sharp impression without smudging or fading. This delicate balance takes years of experience to master.
<Carving>
Adjust the engraved letters carefully
with a carving knife. Needless to say,
this process also requires a high level of skill
and experience.
<Mission completed!>
Your original "hanko" seal will be shipped
by Japan Post.