Indigo Metal Explained — A groundbreaking fusion of indigo dyeing and metal craftsmanship.
The Foundations of Indigo Dyeing and the Cultural Depth of “JAPAN BLUE”
Indigo dyeing is a traditional Japanese technique that uses natural, plant-based indigo.
Its deep blue—often referred to as JAPAN BLUE—evokes purity, calmness, and refined elegance.
Historically, it has been used not only for textiles but also for everyday tools and ceremonial items, becoming a color that connects tradition with daily life.
CHACCARD Indigo Metal brings this distinctly Japanese blue into the world of tools, giving the piece not just a striking appearance but a sense of story and cultural resonance.
The challenge of dyeing metal (“The Indigo Project” and the core of its technique)
Indigo dyeing is traditionally done on natural materials such as fabric. Metal, by contrast, is extremely difficult to dye — and that is precisely the challenge taken on by Nagao Manufacturing (Oita) through their “Indigo Project.”
Beginning their research in 2016 and continuing for about three years, they succeeded in creating a new material: Indigo Metal, a metal surface colored using natural, plant-based indigo.
Dyeing metal requires meticulous control of conditions such as surface preparation, temperature, humidity, and even the “maturity” of the dye itself.
Artisans immerse each piece into the indigo vat by hand, judging the perfect moment to lift it out.
This process gives every piece its own unique character—no two are exactly alike.
CHACCARD Indigo Metal incorporates this material in part of its exterior, achieving a distinctly different and striking presence.
Uniqueness, evolving texture, and benefits like deodorizing and antibacterial properties
Because Indigo Metal uses natural indigo, each piece varies slightly in color.
With use, the blue tones deepen and develop a richer hue—allowing you to enjoy the aging and patina over time.
Indigo is also known for its deodorizing and antibacterial qualities, making it well suited for daily use and enhancing its appeal as a gift.
This blend of visual beauty and practical function is one of the defining strengths of CHACCARD Indigo Metal.
Usage Notes
If it gets wet: Wipe off moisture with a soft cloth and dry it in a well-ventilated place.
Exposure to seawater or sweat: Salt can stress the metal. After use, wipe it dry; if necessary, lightly wipe with fresh water and dry thoroughly.
Storage: Keep it dry. When placing it in a pocket or card case, avoid strong friction against other metal objects.
Exploring the Charm and Essential Specs of CHACCARD Indigo Metal
Main Functions — Five Things It Can Do
Saw:
For cutting small branches or thin boards. Useful in outdoor settings.
Plane:
Shaves wood to create tinder. Makes fire-starting quick and efficient.
Firesteel & Striker:
Generates sparks for ignition. Reliable even when you don’t have a lighter.
Hemp Rope Cutter:
Quickly handles rope and zip ties with ease.
Flathead Driver:
Convenient for small screw adjustments.
Materials & Durability
Case Body: Reinforced Resin
Lightweight yet tough. Protects the tools from everyday scratches and impacts.
Blade & Saw: Hardened Carbon Tool Steel
Heat treatment provides sharpness and durability. The more you use it, the more you feel the quality of a true Japanese blade.
Striker: Highly Corrosion-resistant Stainless Steel
Produces stable sparks and resists rust, making it dependable outdoors.
Indigo Metal (Indigo Dye × Metal)
Used on part of the exterior. The deep indigo hue and one-of-a-kind texture add both traditional beauty and distinctiveness to the tool.
Card-sized Portability and Usability
Thin and flat for minimalist carry.
Designed to provide a firm grip during use, ensuring stability even in detailed tasks.
The indigo-dyed JAPAN BLUE enhances visibility and elevates the sense of ownership every time you take it out.
Size, Weight, and Slim Profile — Fits in Pockets and Card Cases
Engineered to fit into business card holders, card cases, or compact pouches.
Storing it in the dedicated sleeve or cloth pouch reduces friction with other metal items.
If you carry it in a front pants pocket, using a separate pocket from your phone helps prevent scratches.
Lightweight for daily carry—comfortable even over long periods without causing stress.
How to Choose Your Pattern Variation (HONOO / HANABI / TSUCHIME)
HONOO〈Flame〉 — Strength and Passion
A deep indigo base accented with patterns reminiscent of rising flames.
Among the CHACCARD Indigo Metal variations, this one has the strongest presence—perfect for outdoor enthusiasts or active individuals.
Its charm lies in the dynamic shifts of light and shade depending on the viewing angle, expressing the bold character of its owner.
HANABI〈Fireworks〉 — Brilliance and Playfulness
Rhythmic, dotted patterns evoke the sparkle of fireworks bursting across the night sky.
It carries a hint of charm, striking a beautiful balance between tradition and pop-like flair.
A great choice for anyone who appreciates art or design, and a gift that appeals across genders.
TSUCHIME〈Hammered Pattern〉 — Refined Traditional Beauty
A clean, well-balanced surface design inspired by the hammered textures of traditional metalwork.
Subtle and elegant, it pairs beautifully with suits and leather accessories.
An ideal choice for business gifts or for presenting to someone in a senior position.
Understanding Color Variation and Individual Differences
Indigo dye × metal creates one-of-a-kind pieces.
No item will look exactly the same as the photos.
The depth of blue can also appear different depending on lighting and viewing angles during photography.
Define your preference—whether you like deep indigo or a more textured, uneven look—and check the product photos from multiple angles to choose the one that speaks to you.
The Legacy of the Craft and Its Makers — Discovering Value Through Japan’s Enduring Traditions
The Blades of Seki, Gifu — The DNA of Tenken Kogyo
Seki City in Gifu Prefecture is a renowned blade-making region with an 800-year history.
Founded here in 1926, Tenken Kogyo has honed its precision finishing techniques over three generations.
The skills cultivated through manufacturing tweezers and precision tools—especially the ability to align tips with no more than 0.1 mm deviation—are applied directly to the fine components of this card-sized tool.
The appeal of CHACCARD Indigo Metal goes far beyond its indigo-dyed appearance.
At its core lies the uncompromising “Seki way”—professional-grade functionality and exceptionally high-level finishing.
The Saw of Tsubame-Sanjo, Niigata (Nakaya Co., Ltd.) — A Legacy of Sharpness
The saw component is produced in Tsubame-Sanjo, Niigata, a region famous for its blacksmithing and metalwork.
It is crafted by Nakaya Co., Ltd., whose motto is “The history of saws is the history of Nakaya.”
With a century of accumulated expertise, they achieve both cutting performance and durability.
The sensation of a small branch being sliced through smoothly and effortlessly is a testament to the depth of Japan’s blade-making culture—an advantage that becomes a meaningful talking point when given as a gift.
Natural Indigo from Nishi-Awa, Tokushima — A World Agricultural Heritage Landscape
The Indigo Metal used for part of the exterior incorporates natural indigo from Nishi-Awa in Tokushima Prefecture, a region recognized as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System.
Indigo is a cultural symbol of the area. Challenging the long-held belief that “indigo can only dye fabric,” artisans achieved the breakthrough of dyeing metal with natural indigo.
Its deep JAPAN BLUE carries a beauty that resonates even with international audiences.
A color where tradition and innovation coexist, enriching the story of whoever carries it.
Technology × Tradition × Design — A Three-Way Fusion
Technology: Precision finishing from Seki, the sharp saws of Tsubame-Sanjo, and a new material that dyes metal with indigo.
Tradition: The lineage of Japanese blades, natural indigo, and region-rooted craftsmanship.
Design: A minimalist card-sized form paired with the unique, one-of-a-kind expressions of indigo.
The harmony of these three elements gives CHACCARD Indigo Metal a value far beyond that of simply “a different color variation.”
Sustainability and Regional Collaboration
Tenken Kogyo continues initiatives that consider both the environment and the local community, including material reuse and support for regional events.
Indigo Metal emphasizes long-term durability, and the deodorizing and antibacterial properties of indigo help keep the tool clean in daily use.
Its evolving patina over years of use aligns naturally with a mindset that values long-lasting items over disposable consumption.
Why It Makes the Perfect Gift — A Present with a Story Worth Sharing
A One-of-a-Kind Appearance — A “Truly Unique” Gift
Because Indigo Metal is created by artisans who judge the condition of the metal and dye by hand, no two patterns are exactly alike.
By choosing from HONOO, HANABI, and TSUCHIME based on the recipient’s personality, you can give “a piece made just for them.”
This sense of uniqueness is one of the greatest strengths of CHACCARD Indigo Metal as a gift.
A Story of Tradition × Innovation — A Gift That Stands Apart
Natural indigo from Tokushima (tradition), blade craftsmanship from Seki (tradition), and the breakthrough technology of dyeing metal with indigo (innovation).
With a story that answers questions like “Why is it blue?” or “How can metal be indigo-dyed?”, the moment of giving becomes a richer experience.
It is not merely a different color variation — the unique narrative behind CHACCARD Indigo Metal creates a memorable gift-giving moment.
A Practical Tool That Lasts — Trust That Grows Over Time
Its functional elements—saw, plane, firesteel & striker, hemp rope cutter, and flathead driver—are condensed into a compact card format.
Built with reinforced resin, hardened carbon tool steel, and other durable materials, it supports the small “just-in-case” moments of daily life.
The more it proves useful, the more lasting the recipient’s trust and appreciation toward the giver.
The Universality and Elegance of JAPAN BLUE
JAPAN BLUE transcends age, gender, and nationality.
It complements both business and casual styles, carrying a refined traditional aesthetic—making it an excellent choice for souvenirs or commemorative gifts for both domestic and international recipients.
General Notes for Overseas Gift-Giving
This product includes blades and tool components. In many countries, it cannot be carried in cabin luggage and must be placed in checked baggage when traveling by air.
Rules vary by country and facility, so check local regulations in advance.
Store it in the protective sleeve or cloth pouch during transport to avoid friction with other metal items.
