Shumi no Bungubako July 2026 Vol.78

Special Feature on Stationery Inspired by Picture Books

The special feature of Shumi no Bungubako July 2026, Vol. 78, explores the enchanting world of picture books, a theme that continues to captivate readers of all ages.
The books we turned to again and again as children, along with the colors and lines we encountered within their pages, helped shape our imagination and enrich our sensibilities.
In this issue, we invite you to discover the fascinating intersection of picture books and stationery—a world that can be appreciated anew through adult eyes.

Special Feature: Stationery Inspired by Picture Books

This feature explores the stationery and art materials cherished by some of Japan’s most beloved picture book creators, including Noritake Suzuki, Mizumaru Anzai, tupera tupera, Yoko Sano, Yuko Omori, Kota, and Haruka Nohana.
The issue also presents a curated selection of high-quality stationery that invites readers into the worlds of their favorite stories, along with unique gift ideas that combine picture books and stationery to inspire creativity in recipients of all ages.
Every page offers new discoveries—whether it encourages you to open a picture book you have never read before or reach for your favorite pen or pencil and begin creating something of your own.
In addition, the feature includes a comprehensive comparison of classic colored pencils from leading brands such as Mitsubishi Pencil, Tombow Pencil, Caran d’Ache, STAEDTLER, Faber-Castell, and Holbein. Packed with inspiration and practical insights, this issue celebrates the joy of writing and drawing by hand.

KOKUYO × Shumi no Bungubako: Introducing the “Book Companion Paperweight” (Bronze Edition)

The first collaboration item between KOKUYO and Shumi no Bungubako is here—the Book Companion Paperweight (Bronze Edition).
In this feature, we unveil the new product and explore the craftsmanship behind its creation. Through an in-depth on-site report from the manufacturing workshop, our editorial team takes readers behind the scenes to discover the passion, expertise, and meticulous attention to detail that brought this unique paperweight to life.

Schneider: Add Color to Everyday Life with the Paint-It 310

Get an early look at the Paint-It 310, the acrylic marker from renowned German stationery maker Schneider, ahead of its highly anticipated debut in Japan in June 2026.
Capable of transforming a wide range of surfaces into creative canvases, the Paint-It 310 opens up new possibilities for artistic expression. This feature explores its versatility and showcases how it can bring vibrant color and creativity to everyday moments.

The Breath of Craftsmanship
The Nib Shaper: A Masterpiece of Craftsmanship Created Across Three Generations

Yukio Nagahara, known as The Nib Shaper, left Sailor Pen in 2020 to pursue his independent path. In 2022, his son Takuma joined him, and in 2023 he made his full-fledged debut as a nib specialist.
In this feature, we speak with the Nagaharas about their passion for the pen clinics they conduct across Japan, the skills and philosophy passed down through generations, and the story behind the long-awaited creation of their original fountain pen.