Founded in 1902 in Nara, Japan, as a manufacturer of traditional Japanese calligraphy ink (sumi), Kuretake is now a globally recognized producer of pens and markers under the ZIG brand. The name ZIG comes from the word "zigzag," referring to the back-and-forth movement of a pen while writing, and the brand began using this name with its first fine liner pen in the 1970s.

The brand's most distinctive quality is that its century-long experience with sumi ink is reflected in its other products. For example, Gansai Tambi watercolors are produced by blending traditional solid sumi ink with modern pigments; despite being in tablet form, they have a creamy consistency and a non-toxic, heavy-metal-free composition.

The collection includes Gansai Tambi tablet watercolor sets in various sizes from 6 to 48 pieces (including opal, pearl, jewel, and metallic special color series), double-ended and single-tip calligraphy pens (PC-200 series), water brushes, refillable brush pens, ink blending markers, various types of sumi ink in glass jars, manga brush sets, and calligraphy instructional booklets. This wide range appeals to both beginner and professional artists working with sumi-e, calligraphy, illustration, manga, and watercolor techniques.

As one of the authorized retailers of Kuretake ZIG in Turkey, Karin Sanat stocks the brand's complete range of watercolor and calligraphy products. All products are guaranteed to be authentic, sourced through official distribution channels, and are available both in our Fatih and Nişantaşı stores and online at karinsanat.com.

You can browse the Kuretake ZIG products below and contact us for assistance with series and color selection.