Anything × Robinson Pen Case olive
The Robinson × Anything pencil case emerged from a collaboration between pen specialist Robinson and Anything Co – a company that has been manufacturing traditional Japanese work aprons, known as Maekake, for over 200 years. The case is made entirely in Japan from the densest available Maekake fabric: a heavy, tightly woven cotton textile with a characteristically rough-warm surface that softens with use. The olive color gives the case a restrained, earthy tone that develops its own character through use.
Special Features
- Authentic Maekake Fabric: Anything Co still weaves the fabric on looms over 100 years old in Toyohashi, Aichi Prefecture – the last remaining production site for Maekake in Japan. The result is an unusually dense, textured textile with noticeable weight and a surface that reliably holds writing implements in place without scratching.
- Maekake Strap as Holder: The iconic Maekake binding strap has been reimagined and serves inside the case as an elastic holder for fountain pens, ballpoint pens, and pencils – making the connection between work apron and pencil case visually functional.
- Sturdy Woven Cotton Fabric: The heavy fabric gives the case its own form and protection without requiring stiff linings or reinforcements. Writing implements are cushioned and held by the fabric itself.
- Olive Color: A muted, natural greenish-gray – understated on the desk, quirky enough for travel. The coloring reacts slightly differently to use and light, giving the case an individual patina appearance over time.
- Made in Japan: Complete production in Japan, from fabric weaving to finished pencil case form.
Use & Tips
- The interior Maekake strap is designed for writing implements of medium to larger dimensions – fountain pens, rollerballs, and sturdy ballpoint pens sit securely there. For very slim pens, it is recommended to carry two side by side.
- The case is particularly well-suited for daily transport of two to four favorite pens – such as a fountain pen with a broad writing nib for paperwork on the go and a fineliner as backup.
- The Maekake fabric tolerates light moisture but should not be soaked. Dye transfer is possible: do not store white or light textiles directly next to it. Do not wash with fabric softener, do not dry in dryer, do not wash in warm temperatures.
- The case can be stored flat in a bag or transported rolled up – the stiff fabric holds its shape even without contents.
For Textile Enthusiasts
Anything Co has been producing Maekake since 2004 in Toyohashi, Aichi – a place considered the last active site of traditional Maekake manufacturing in Japan. The company's nine looms date from before 1920 and produce a fabric with warp density and surface texture that cannot be achieved with modern industrial looms. For the pencil case, the heaviest available Maekake quality was deliberately chosen – a fabric originally made for heavy use in crafts and trade, bringing this durability directly into everyday use.
Technical Specifications
| Model / Series: | Robinson × Anything Pencil Case |
| Color: | Olive |
| Material: | Maekake cotton fabric (heavy quality, traditionally woven) |
| Interior Holder: | Maekake strap (cotton), newly fitted as pen holder |
| Origin: | Made in Japan (Toyohashi, Aichi Prefecture) |
| Care: | Wash cold, separately from light textiles; no fabric softener, no dryer; may shrink slightly |
| Delivery Contents: | 1 pencil case |