Zebra

Q: What is Zebra, and what makes it such a big name in Japanese stationery?
A: Zebra is a Japanese pen maker that’s been around since the early 1900s, and they’re behind some of the most-loved everyday writing tools. The Sarasa gel pen series is their superstar—smooth, richly coloured, and available in an almost ridiculous number of shades. They also make the Mildliner highlighter, which changed how people use highlighters, and the Surari ballpoint. Zebra has a knack for taking practical tools and giving them just enough personality and colour to make you want to use them daily. At kawaiizaki, I think of Zebra as the brand that makes writing fun without compromising on function.
Q: Is Zebra stationery good for gifting, and what would make a nice set?
A: Zebra is brilliant for gifts because the colour range lets you personalise the set. A few Sarasa Vintage pens in a slim case feels thoughtful and elegant for someone who journals. A pack of Mildliners with a matching Sarasa Clip makes a lovely “back to school” or “new desk” kit. For a stationery lover who already has favourites, a set of limited-edition Sarasa colours or a refill bundle in their preferred tip size is practical and personal. These are gifts that get used, not stashed.
Q: Why is the Zebra Sarasa Clip so popular? It seems like everyone has one.
A: The Sarasa Clip earned its reputation by being incredibly reliable and a joy to write with. The ink is a vivid, water-based gel that flows smoothly from the first stroke and dries relatively quickly. The binder clip is strong and wide, so it latches onto thick notebook covers, pockets, and pen loops without snapping. It comes in 0.3mm, 0.4mm, 0.5mm, and 0.7mm, and the colour range is vast—from classic black to soft milk tones. Once you find your favourite tip size and colour, it’s hard to reach for anything else for daily notes.