The pens are truly one-of-a-kind, creating using precious woods and craftsmanship

The rich grain has a precious natural wood texture and is comfortable to hold. Creator of the smooth and beautifully formed Unshu series, Mamoru Hirai of the Hirao Woodworking Plant is a 55 year old veteran of the trade, entering the field at the age of 15. As a turner, he freely carves out a silhouette using a blade known as a shaka, while turning the wood on an old spinning lathe.

“In order to bring out the authentic character of the wood, I carve out the pen axis, neck, and cap using separate wooden blocks. None of the parts are patched together, making for a beautiful wood grain, and every pen is entirely unique.”

Hirai once worked as a subcontractor for a manufacturer, spending his days making items such as umbrella handles. Since around 2003, the woodworking industry began moving overseas, where the processing costs were cheap. On top of that, Hirai had an accident while working. He was forced to stay in the hospital for a month after undergoing major surgery to sew back three fingers that were severed by the machine. It seemed that his life as a craftsman was over.

“It was strange. And yet, the day after I returned home, I went back to work with my still-bandaged hand,” says Hirai.

At this moment, Hirai, at the peak of disappointment, received a request to create a high-end pen. Hearing the customer say that there was no one else who could handle such elaborate work, Hirai decided to set up his own brand, Unshu. Turning to an unfamiliar field, he searched for companies selling stationary on the net. His products soon became popular, and were swiftly picked up by the media. Hirai’s source of energy comes from the support he receives from the customers. “I want to keep working as long as I have my health,” Says Hirai with a cheerful smile.