Name Card (Shikishi)

$16.95

Beautifully hand-made in traditional Japanese style, Shikishi have been used as a special form of messaging for hundreds of years. Our shikishi are carefully designed by Erika, who has been practicing the art of calligraphy since she was a child in her hometown near Tokyo.

Typically given as a sentimental “thank you” card, our Shikishi are the perfect gift for new borns, graduations or as a special thank you to a departing coworker.

As part of your order you will also receive a small card that shows the meaning of each individual Kanji and translates it into English or Japanese to enhance the sentimental value of your gift.

Each of our shikishi are approximately 13.5cm h x 12cm. If you would like a custom order made, please contact us and we will try our best to create a size that suits your needs.

Beautifully hand-made in traditional Japanese style, Shikishi have been used as a special form of messaging for hundreds of years. Our shikishi are carefully designed by Erika, who has been practicing the art of calligraphy since she was a child in her hometown near Tokyo.

Typically given as a sentimental “thank you” card, our Shikishi are the perfect gift for new borns, graduations or as a special thank you to a departing coworker.

As part of your order you will also receive a small card that shows the meaning of each individual Kanji and translates it into English or Japanese to enhance the sentimental value of your gift.

Each of our shikishi are approximately 13.5cm h x 12cm. If you would like a custom order made, please contact us and we will try our best to create a size that suits your needs.

What is Shikishi?

Shikishi (色紙) boards are made from fine handmade art paper laminated to a hard board backing. They are traditionally edged with gold foil and are used for paintings, haiku poems, calligraphy, and watercolor paintings. When given to another person, Shikishi are generally only used when it is a close friend, family member or colleague departing (either changing jobs or finishing school for example). They can also be used as a congratulatory card given to new parents when their baby is born, often featuring the child’s name and birth date.

Taking care of your Shikishi

Thanks to the hard board backing Shikishi are a bit more sturdy, but should still be handled with care. As you would with any other artwork, please avoid displaying your shikishi in direct sunlight, as continued exposure will degrade the paper and cause the calligraphy ink to fade. The paper is also sensitive to strong moisture, so places with poor ventilation such as bathrooms and powder rooms should be avoided. We would also recommend placing your Shikishi away from the direct flow of any airconditioners.