Collection: Tono & Lims: The Collaborative Palette of Tokyo & Seoul

Step into the vibrant and experimental world of Tono & Lims, a pioneering ink brand born from the spirit of "Friendship." Founded by Takashi Ono, a dedicated fountain pen enthusiast from Tokyo, in partnership with Lim's Lab — a skilled ink producer based in South Korea — Tono & Lims has redefined the boundaries of fountain pen ink by blending Korean production expertise with a distinctly Japanese aesthetic sensibility and creative vision.

The Artistic Science of Colour Evolution

Tono & Lims is more than a manufacturer; it is a laboratory of creative expression. By blending meticulous chemical innovation with an adventurous artistic vision, they have developed a spectrum of inks that change and evolve as they interact with the page. To truly appreciate their work, one must understand the three pillars of their ink performance.

1. Dynamic Shading and Multi-Tonal Depth

The journey begins with Shading. Many Tono & Lims formulations are celebrated for their incredible multi-tonal properties. As the ink dries on high-quality, fountain pen-friendly paper, it reveals subtle gradients and hidden undertones — shifting from soft, ethereal tints to deep, moody hues within a single stroke. This shading effect adds a rhythmic, organic quality to handwriting, making every journal entry or sketch a unique exploration of colour.

2. Metallic Sheen and High-Saturation Lustre

Beyond the delicate gradients lies the dramatic world of Sheen. For those seeking bold visual impact, Tono & Lims produces highly saturated inks that dry with a stunning metallic lustre on the surface of the paper. Depending on the lighting and angle, the base colour is transformed by a contrasting halo — a deep blue might reveal a flash of copper, or a forest green might glow with a halo of magenta. This sheening capability is a testament to the brand's mastery over pigment density and surface tension.

3. Mesmerizing Shimmer and Pearlescent Particles

Finally, Tono & Lims is globally renowned for its mastery of Shimmer. Their pearlescent series incorporates ultra-fine, high-grade particles that create a mesmerizing, sparkling finish. Whether it is the subtle gleam of a light shimmer or a heavy infusion of silver and gold, these inks are meticulously formulated for consistent particle distribution — designed to flow smoothly through fountain pens and allow your words to catch the light with every movement of the page.

A Symphony of Collaboration and Friendship

At the heart of Tono & Lims is a commitment to the stationery community. By partnering with independent artists, local boutiques, and ink enthusiasts across Japan and beyond, they have curated a collection as diverse as the creators themselves. Each bottle tells a story — not just of a pigment, but of a shared passion for the written word and the visual arts.

From the whimsical Baby Colour series to sophisticated limited-edition collaborations, Tono & Lims provides the tools to transform your writing into a journey of discovery.

Based in Gatineau, Quebec, Shosai provides curated stationery to enthusiasts across the National Capital Region (Ottawa–Gatineau) and throughout Canada.