About Us
From a small workshop in Nagoya, Japan - a century of precision engineering in stamps and writing instruments.
Where It All Began
Our story begins more than 100 years ago in Japan with a simple but significant problem: traditional stamp pads required users to reapply ink before every impression, making them inconvenient and inconsistent. In 1925, Shachihata introduced the revolutionary Mannen stamp pad designed for continuous use without repeated inking. This innovation transformed the concept of what a stamp pad could be.
Established in 1968, Shachihata Inc. USA laid the foundation for decades of continued innovation and expansion.
A Century of Innovation
Shachihata celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2025. With gratitude to those who have supported our journey, we will continue creating new and exciting experiences for the next 100 years.
Convenience. Genuine Pleasure. Trust and Safety.
Our mission is to deliver the values of 'Convenience', 'Genuine Pleasure', 'Trust and Safety' to the wider society, even in these changing times.
In our role as a manufacturer, we plan, develop, and produce top quality products, and provide value to customers through distributing high-quality stationery and stamp products.
We will work more closely with our users and provide the kind of products and services required by society, with complete confidence and conviction - all over the world.
The World's First Pre-Inked Stamp
A major technological breakthrough came in 1965 with the development of the Xstamper, widely recognized as the world's first pre-inked rubber stamp. Unlike traditional stamps, the Xstamper contained ink within the stamp itself, allowing for clean, consistent impressions without the need for a separate ink pad. This innovation was the result of extensive research and experimentation and became the core technology behind the Xstamper, enabling exceptional durability and performance.
From Three Markers to a Global Brand
Parallel to its stamping innovations, Shachihata expanded into the writing and marking instruments market with the launch of the Artline brand in 1964. What began with just three permanent markers evolved into a vast and diverse product line. Today, Artline includes a wide array of tools such as permanent markers, whiteboard markers, paint and metallic markers, highlighters, calligraphy pens, drawing system pens, and specialized markers.
Artline products are known for their high-quality proprietary inks, precision performance, and ergonomic design, making them suitable for a broad spectrum of uses - from everyday writing and office work to professional, industrial, and artistic applications. The brand emphasizes both reliability and user comfort, helping it build a loyal global customer base.
Trusted in 100+ Countries Worldwide
Today, Shachihata stands as a leader in both stamping and writing technologies. Its products are used worldwide, with tens of millions of Artline pens and markers sold annually. From its early efforts to improve a simple stamp pad to its development of advanced materials and globally recognized brands, the company's history reflects a consistent commitment to innovation, quality, and practical problem-solving.
Shachihata Inc., the parent company of Artline USA and Shachihata Inc. (U.S.A.), is a global entity. International customers can visit artlineworld.com for regional distributors.
Built to Last. Made to Reuse.
Looking towards the future, Shachihata will continue to oversee the entire product life cycle - from planning to production - to ensure the quality and safety of all its products and to maintain the trust of its customers.
Since our founding, we have emphasized the importance of manufacturing reusable products. We continue to develop all of our products with this in mind. In addition to manufacturing products that offer high quality and high durability, we continue our efforts toward developing green products that are environmentally friendly in terms of material safety, recyclability, and more.
Long Life Designing
For over a century, Shachihata has been dedicated to creating refillable and long-lasting marking tools—offering a full range of stamp pads, pre-inked stamps, and refillable markers designed for repeated use. Durability and sustainability have always been at the heart of our R&D philosophy, supporting generations of users while reducing environmental impact.
Sustainable Raw Materials
Shachihata released a line of ECO-GREEN products made from recycled plastic. Some of the inks of our markers and stamps contain plant-based materials, including ingredients derived from sugarcane and castor oil. They has a low impact on the environment with the realization of the action that must be taken by the manufacturer.
Eco-friendly Manufacturing
At Shachihata factories, we implement eco-friendly manufacturing practices. We diligently manage wastewater, emissions, and waste to avoid water pollution and protect local environments. For Shachihata, caring for nature isn’t new— it’s part of who we are—supporting an ecology system good for people and the environment.
Let's Connect
Have questions about our products, our brands, or our story? We'd love to hear from you.
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