Sakura started as a crayon company in 1921, and by 1924 had invented Cray-Pas®, the first oil pastel that combines oil and pigment. It went on to develop Pigma® ink which is used in their Micron® and other pens. The ink contains pigment particles of submicron size, resulting in steady flow even through very fine nibs. Pigma pens have become a popular choice among artists, scientists, crafters, and more. In 1984, Sakura invented the first gel-based ink, and more recent developments include raised dimensional inks such as Glaze® ink. Sakura continues to innovate and create pens that give us the "Power to Express®".