OKOSHI-KATAGAMI: Wholesale Hand-Carved Ise-Katagami by Okoshi Katagami Shoten

OKOSHI-KATAGAMI: Wholesale Hand-Carved Ise-Katagami by Okoshi Katagami Shoten



OKOSHI-KATAGAMI” refers to the hand-carved Ise-katagami stencils crafted or owned by Okoshi Katagami Shoten Co., Ltd. Each intricate and refined pattern reflects the aesthetic sensibilities they have cultivated since their founding in 1924, as well as the trends of each era. Guided by their belief in absorbing, creating, and evolving with all forms of design, they project the beauty of Japanese patterns and culture onto these stencils—brightening and enriching everyday life through the enduring artistry of Ise-katagami.

 

Company Introduction

Founded in 1924 in Suzuka, Mie Prefecture, their company is a specialized maker of Ise-katagami with a legacy spanning over a century. They house more than 30,000 Ise-katagami stencils, earning global recognition as the largest archive of this traditional pattern culture. Beyond preserving heritage, they continually design and carve new patterns that harmonize with modern lifestyles and values. The fusion of historical legacy and contemporary sensibility defines the spirit of Okoshi Katagami Shoten today.



Bridging Tradition and Innovation: Bringing the Power of Japanese Patterns to the World

Within Ise-katagami lies the “heartbeat of culture,” resonating from the past into the future.
At its core is the art of pattern design, and through the act of carving onto paper, it reveals a unique beauty—something neither painting nor ink wash can fully express.
For over a century, their artisans have engraved patterns that are at times exquisitely intricate, at times boldly expressive—each a mirror reflecting the Japanese sense of beauty, the spirit of the age, and deep reverence for nature.
They believe this treasure should not be confined to the shelves of a museum. Instead, they bring it to life as “living art” that breathes within modern life, sharing it with people around the globe.
It is my mission to bridge tradition and innovation, and to deliver the enduring power of Japanese patterns to the world.



Reimagining Ise-Katagami: Japanese Craftsmanship for Modern & Global Lifestyles

They are dedicated to connecting Ise-katagami—a traditional Japanese craft of intricate paper stencils—with contemporary lifestyles and international design.
Harnessing the delicate beauty of its hand-carved patterns, they create lighting, stationery, fashion items, and art panels, offering curated product proposals to select shops and interior boutiques in Japan and abroad.
By reinterpreting traditional craft as “beautiful everyday objects,” they aim to share the allure of Japanese culture with the world.




Awards & International Exhibitions

2010 – Exhibited at Maison & Objet, Paris, France
2011 – Exhibited at Première Vision Indigo, Paris, France
2012 – Exhibited at Première Vision Indigo, Paris, France
2013 – Participated in SNOOPY JAPANESQUE product showcase
2020 – Contributed products for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games
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