#Japan #Tokyo #ju:tale #福音館書店 #bookmaking

Experiencing the Joy of Bookmaking for Children

In today's world where smartphones and tablets are ubiquitous, the opportunity to physically interact with books and engage in hands-on creative experiences is dwindling. In response, Seibi-dou Co., Ltd., a Japanese company based in Itabashi, Tokyo, is on a mission to rekindle this passion for bookmaking among children through their new product line, ju:tale.

The company has recently released an innovative series of bookmaking kits that allow children to craft their own books. This initiative, called “Hituji no Ehon Seihon” (Sheep’s Picture Book Binding), aims to provide a sustainable experience by repurposing leftover paper from the printing process at Fukuinkan Shoten, a well-known publisher of children's books.

These kits focus on the tactile experience of creating a book by utilizing the same exceptional paper used in published picture books. Children will not only enjoy the artistic aspect of crafting their books but also learn the valuable lesson of sustainability by using recycled materials.

Launch and Features of the New Kit

The “Hituji no Ehon Seihon” will make its debut at the 17th EDIX (Educational Comprehensive Exhibition) from May 13-15, 2026. Following this, it will be available for pre-sale at the Bungu Joshi Haku Tokyo 2026 event in June and will then be sold through their official online store.

Key Features of the Kit:

• - Authentic Book Paper: Utilizes the same quality paper as the original picture books published by Fukuinkan Shoten.
• - Sustainability: Reuses excess paper from the printing process, promoting a greener approach to bookmaking.
• - Finished Quality: Children can draw on the white cover provided and apply a special film to achieve a glossy finish reminiscent of commercially available picture books.
• - User-Friendly Size: The kit is designed in a square format similar to “Nenai Ko Dareda”, making it a familiar and appealing choice for kids.
• - Support for Educators: Incorporates insights gained from previous workshops conducted at universities and libraries, aimed at educational use. Special pricing for educational institutions is available, making this attractive for schools and libraries.

The ju:tale series also includes other exciting kits like Hedgehog Mini-Binding (beginner level) and Gorilla Master Binding (advanced level), which were developed in response to requests from educators looking for engaging, hands-on activities for their classes.

Additionally, educators can download lesson plans to help integrate these activities into their curriculum seamlessly.

Upcoming Events and Sales Schedule

Display and Sales Opportunities:

Seibi-dou will showcase its entire line of bookmaking kits, providing potential customers with the opportunity to handle the products firsthand at the following events:
1. 17th EDIX
- Date: May 13-15, 2026
- Venue: Tokyo Big Sight, Booth ST-81
- EDIX Event Link

2. Bungu Joshi Haku Tokyo 2026
- Date: June 11-14, 2026
- Venue: Ariake GYM-EX, Booth F-35
- Bungu Joshi Haku Event Link

At these events, attendees can explore the “Hedgehog Mini-Binding Buffet” where they can mix and match different fabrics to create one-of-a-kind notebooks.

Purchasing Information

The Hituji no Ehon Seihon kit will initially be available for educational professionals starting May 13 at the EDIX venue. It can be reserved through the company’s website or contact forms. This exclusive offer includes a 30% discount off the retail price.

For general customers, the full line will be available for pre-sale at the Bungu Joshi Haku from June 11, with a live launch on June 15 through the official online store.

About Seibi-dou

Founded in 1958, Seibi-dou Co., Ltd. has a storied history of producing various long-selling picture books like Fukuinkan Shoten’s “Kodomo no Tomo” series. As they launch the ju:tale brand, they are committed to sharing the joys of book-making and the intrinsic value of books with the next generation.

The company expresses profound gratitude to Fukuinkan Shoten for permitting the utilization of the paper for this innovative product.

For more information, visit the official website or the ju:tale brand site.

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