These unique Kitpas can be used to draw on wet surfaces and wiped clean when done. Maker Nihon Rikagaku has been making quality art materials for over 80 years since their founding in 1937 as a manufacturer of chalks. Rikagaku chalk products began as regular hard white chalks made from calcium carbonate and were the preferred brand for many schools and businesses.In 1967 Rikagaku expanded its production and added a factory in Bibai-shi, Hokkaido Japan. Bibai-shi, which translates to, “beautiful shell city,” actually had massive waste piles of scallop shells that were causing serious environmental issues. It seemed only natural to reduce, reuse and recycle this material. With the help of local government they developed a patented process to recycle these shell byproducts. The use of powdered shells had the additional benefit of making Rikagaku Chalks stronger, smoother, and longer lasting! It’s no surprise that more than 60% of the chalks currently used by schools in Japan are Rikagaku Chalks.As they continued our product development, they explored ideas for an innovative material that works on surfaces like paper, glass, mirrors and whiteboards. In 2005 they introduced buttery smooth, truly multi-surface, vividly colored and water soluble Kitpas Art Crayons which are also completely non-toxic and easy to clean up. They soon became both kids' and parents' favorite choice of crayons, winning Japan’s prestigious “Stationary of the Year Award” in 2009.Today, Rikagaku has evolved into Japan's leading manufacturer of innovative, eco-friendly art materials. They know you will love their products - let your creativity flow with Kitpas! Age Warning - not for use with children under 3 years of age. Always supervise your children when using this product.
