What is "shibo" ?

"Shibo" is the Japanese term for the crepe or pebbly pattern effect seen in textiles and in some leathers.The term "Shibo" has been used in Japanese textiles since approximately the 12th century,and is most commonly seen today in "Shibori" crepe textiles. The shibori pattern is achieved by rubbing, crimping, and gathering a textile or
leather during production or tanning. The Japanese plastics industry has developed rapidly since 1945, and new leather texturing methods to be applied in plastics molding have been desired to further increase product value. Tanazawa hakkosha identified this need early on. Leather texturing processes prevent weld lines and sink marks and also eliminate secondary processing requirements. Highly decorative texturing precesses have become an essential element of many plastics molding lines.

About texturing

Effects of texture processing:
-Outstanding economy, stability, and processability.
-Outstanding decorativeness increases product value.
-Prevents weld lines and sink marks.
-Enhances commercial value, and prevents problems due to scratches and blemishes.
-Eliminates need for coating, grinding, and other secondary processes.
-Provides greater reinforcement and safety by reducing slippage.

Etching applications:
-The natural-like texture of raw leather, natural wood, and textiles can be accurately reproduced, creating materials with high quality finish and feel.
-Fine patterns can also be reproduced. The etching depth can be freely controlled to obtain a special effect.
-Designs can be enlarged and reduced. Virtually almost metal surfaces can be etched as desired.
-A glazed, semi-glazed, or matte finish can also be imparted as desired.
-Multiple patterns can be imparted to a signal metal surface.
-Joint-free processing is possible even in complex 3D sections, assuring a more aesthetically pleasing effect.

What is etching ?

Etching refers to a group of techniques whereby a design drawn or applied to the surface of a metal or other material using a corrosion resistant agent (e.g., paint) protects the covered design area while an acid or other corrosive agent engraves the remaining surface metal. Etching processes are particularly useful in processing plastic moldings with 3D surface patterns due to the economy, consistent quality, and processability offered by etching. Because etching is essentially a process of chemically engraving the surface, it is also referred to as "Chemical engraving". This process is also able to impart much finer patterns and designs than can be achieved with mechanical engraving processes. Etching is widely used for texture processing of metals and rolls, in the production of relief and intaglio printing plates, printed circuit board wiring, and other applications.

Manufacturing process:
Product textures are determined from the dual perspectives of functionality and creative design after accurately identifying product needs. Years of experience and expertise direct our consulting effort, while sampling is the basis for a detailed check of needs and results. The final result is a product that better meets all requirements.

Etching process:
Anticipating the next generation in material trends, Tanazawa Hakkosha pursues original technologies. Tanazawa Hakkosha is dedicated to recreating a sense of real, natural material textures in response to diversifying and increasingly sophisticated needs.