Collection: Japanese Art Supplies for Calligraphy & Painting
From Illustrated Letters to Casual Japanese Painting
The tools you use vary depending on the style of artwork you create.
From seasonal illustrated letters and ink wash paintings expressed through subtle ink gradations,
to Japanese painting enjoyed casually with gansai paints,
we offer a wide range of art supplies tailored to each genre.
Why not enjoy painting more freely with the right materials? You may discover new creative possibilities.
On this page, we introduce and offer carefully selected art supplies—please take a look.
From Illustrated Letters to Design Calligraphy
Why not create illustrated letters or seasonal greetings such as summer postcards by adding colorful drawings for a fresh expression?
Handwritten letters from loved ones are always a joy to receive.
While a simple message is appreciated, letters or postcards enhanced with color and decoration convey even greater warmth.
You can also expand your creative range by adding color to calligraphy and exploring design calligraphy.
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Differences Between Art Brushes and Calligraphy Brushes
Art brushes and calligraphy brushes may look similar, but they serve different purposes.
For example, menso brushes are often used as art brushes and are ideal for drawing fine, delicate lines.
Since art brushes are not primarily designed for writing characters, they include specialized types such as wide flat brushes for coloring or coating,
and shading brushes that are not directly dipped into ink or paint. These functional differences are reflected in their shapes and structures.
Please refer to our art brush list page for detailed introductions to each brush type and its features.
Features of Japanese Painting and the Meaning of “Dosa-biki”
One defining technique in Japanese painting is “dosa-biki,” a process in which a dosa solution is evenly applied to paper with a brush to prevent ink bleeding.
This solution typically uses animal glue (nikawa). To prepare dosa, nikawa and raw alum are measured, heated with water until the glue dissolves, and then mixed with alum.
While preparation takes time, we also offer ready-made dosa solution—a premixed glue and alum liquid—allowing you to begin without the need for mixing.
Gansai Paints: Create with Just Water and a Brush
In traditional Japanese painting, mineral pigments and suihi pigments do not adhere well to paper, so they are usually mixed with glue solution.
However, gansai paints allow you to enjoy Japanese painting easily without specialized pigments.
Gansai are used one color at a time rather than mixed, and many sets include dozens of colors, offering broad expressive freedom.
Why not start with postcard-sized works? *If you plan to mount your artwork, we recommend adding glue solution or using a mounting spray.
