When creating something, most of us rely on tools. At ITO BINDERY, our products are also born through the use of various tools and machines. Here, we would like to introduce just a few of them.
First and foremost, the cutting machine.
It can cut straight through stacks of dozens or even hundreds of sheets (a Memo Block holds 350!) —
one of the indispensable machines at ITO BINDERY.
This machine has been in use for nearly twenty years. When we asked our staff how thick a stack it could handle, the reply was: “Depending on the paper, with the Memo Block stock, about 500 to 600 sheets.”
Just imagine it—cutting folded or layered sheets perfectly straight by hand is no easy task. The moment was filled with both surprise and excitement. The cutter is equipped with a blade nearly one meter long and a clamp to hold the paper in place. With about two tons of pressure, the clamp secures the stack while the blade descends at an angle to make the cut. Much like the principle of a kitchen knife, this angled motion reduces strain on the surface and allows for a clean separation.
Pursuing precision down to fractions of a millimeter, this is how our products are brought to life.
Next, from a large machine to a small tool: the brush.
The brush is used to apply glue. With care, over and over again, the strokes are repeated. On the Memo Block in particular, the brushed edge takes on a glossy finish, shining smooth and clear like a mirror. Achieving such a flawless surface is by no means easy. It requires careful judgment of how the glue dries and how the paper responds — a true display of craftsmanship. The brush plays a role in nearly all of our products. Where and how is it used? We invite you to look closely at the pieces yourself and imagine the answer.
And then, the knife.
This is used when separating sheets. The blade is always polished and adjusted to ensure the right angle and feel when cutting. What once began as a dining knife — its handle still bearing traces of that time — has now evolved into an indispensable tool, dedicated solely to separating paper. What exactly does it separate? If you visit our shop, you might glimpse the answer just beyond the window.
Of course, there are many more tools and machines in our workshop.
Each one is carefully maintained and gradually customized over time, so that it can continue to serve its purpose. Always in the same place, always within reach —
ordinary as they may seem, their presence holds deep meaning.
Perhaps they even remind us to stay grounded and bring a sense of order into our own lives.
