Our handmade kamishibai have also been exhibited in Tokyo.
Handmade
At Atelier Sakai, each of our original English kamishibai (paper-stage storytelling plays) is crafted entirely by hand, with care, creativity, and a blend of art and education.
What we make
Our “English Kamishibai” series features the charming cat protagonist Max, whose daily life and adventures guide children to encounter English in a natural, engaging way.
Every piece is not simply printed, but thoughtfully designed: from the story concept, storyboard panels, illustrations (including cut-paper and silhouette work), all the way through to the final assembly. Our blog shows some of this behind-the-scenes process.
Why handmade matters
- It creates a warm, unique texture that digital production often lacks.
- The physical presence of the kamishibai invites participation — children see and handle each panel, hear the narrator’s voice, and become part of the storytelling.
- Because we produce in small batches, we can respond flexibly to educational settings: schools, kindergartens, libraries, workshops.
- Our handmade approach reflects our belief that learning English doesn’t have to be sterile or uniform — it can be playful, tactile, and crafted.
Our process
- Concept & storyboard – The story is drafted with English language goals in mind (vocabulary, sentence structure, context).
- Illustration & cut-paper art – We often incorporate silhouette or layered cut-paper art to create vivid scene changes and visual interest.
- Panel design & production – Each scene is printed or crafted onto appropriate panels (A3/A4 or mini size), hand-assembled for durability and visual appeal.
- Performance-preparation – Because the kamishibai is designed for live storytelling, we consider aspects like readability from the audience, timing of panel changes, and interaction elements.
- Release & workshops – Our handmade pieces are used in performances, sold as educational kits, and sometimes incorporated into workshops where children participate in craft activities.
Why choose our handmade kamishibai
- Created by an experienced team led by Kuniaki Sakai (with school-teaching background) to serve both art and English education.
- True original works: not mass-produced, but tailored for storytelling, classroom use, and family settings.
- Flexibility of format: full-size panels (A3/A4) or mini kits for younger children.
- Opportunities for engagement: from looming large at a school event to children crafting parts of the story themselves in the classroom.
Get involved
Whether you are a teacher, librarian, parent or workshop facilitator, our handmade kamishibai can serve as:
- A fun storytime tool to spark English conversation
- A craft-based activity (children help assemble or decorate)
- A centerpiece for bilingual storytelling events or themed language workshops
If you’d like to see how our handmade process works or inquire about custom production / performance, please get in touch with us via our Contact page.