We’re excited to team up with The Superior Labor, eric, Yoshikawa Paper, and Papier Platz - people who share the love for creativity and craftsmanship. Join us for special workshops and exclusive collaboration items, all the way from Japan. We can't wait to see you there!
VENUE：Station 3
1919 Houston Ave, Houston, TX 77007Station 3 is a beautifully restored two-story venue just outside downtown Houston. Originally built in 1903 as one of the city’s first fire stations, it retains its original brickwork, wood floors, and hand-carved stone details, offering a timeless atmosphere. The open layout, high ceilings, and large windows fill the space with natural light, and the venue also features an outdoor courtyard and parking for 70 cars. It has everything we were looking for—parking, beautiful natural light, charm, history, and even an elevator for easy access!
VENDORS
The Superior Labor
Japanese brand based at the foot of the mountains in Okayama, known for its exceptional craftsmanship and timeless designs. Every item is carefully handcrafted by skilled artisans using the finest materials - natural leather, durable canvas, and solid brass. Their philosophy, "We take pride in craftsmanship and never compromise on quality," shines through in every piece they create. The Superior Labor blends functionality, beauty, and the charm of things that grow more beautiful with time.
eric
eric is known as one of the pioneering eraser stamp artists in Japan. After studying design in college and working as an illustrator, she began carving her whimsical illustrations into erasers in 2007. Alongside creating charming stationery like washi tapes, stickers, and other delightful paper goods, she also holds workshops to share the fun and creativity of stamp carving. Since 2023, eirc and Cute Things from Japan partnered to bring eraser stamp workshops to her international fans - and are thrilled to be hosting one in Houston this time!
Papier Platz
Papier Platz means “paper plaza” in German - a name chosen by their founder who had a deep love for Germany, the birthplace of printing. Centered around the theme of “connecting people through paper,” Papier Platz collaborates with various artists to create beautiful washi tapes, stickers, and more. They were among the first to recognize eric’s talent, and have supported her over the years through a number of beloved collaborations. For the event, they will introduce special collaboration items with eric and other artists!
Yoshikawa Paper
Yoshikawa Paper, founded in 1909, has long specialized in both traditional and modern Japanese papers. Their Sutenai notebook - named after the Japanese word for “don’t throw away” - reflects their commitment to sustainability. Made from 100% recycled materials like discarded washi, office paper, and café cups, it blends traditional craftsmanship with modern values. For this event, they’ll introduce a special edition featuring eric’s cute designs!
TICKETS
August 22 - 24 (There are two timed entries each day):
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Choose your entry type from one of the below:
- US$140 / US$150 TSL x eric Canvas Pouch Customization Workshop Ticket (35 spots per time slot)
- US$150 eric Eraser Stamp Carving Workshop Ticket (20 spots per time slot)
- US$25 Admission Ticket to marketplace
All workshop tickets include full entry to the event. Workshops will happen during the first 1.5 to 2 hours of each entry time slot. The remaining time in your ticket includes shopping time at the marketplace.
Each ticket includes a goodie bag on the way out.
MARKET PLACE
In addition to the items shown in these photos, each vendor is bringing many exclusive collaboration items with eric, created especially for this event. They will also be bringing a wide selection of their regular products for you to enjoy. A special highlight: The Superior Labor will be bringing limited-edition items that are normally available only at their official shop in Kurashiki, Japan. These are special pieces not usually available outside their store, so it's a great chance to see them in person. Cute Things from Japan will also feature items from other Japanese artists, including new collaboration products. We hope you’ll enjoy discovering all the unique finds we've put together for you!
WORKSHOP 1: The Superior Labor Customization Workshop
WORKSHOP: August 22, 23, 24
- 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM / 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
WORKSHOP TIME: 1.5 hours
DESCRIPTION:
DESCRIPTION:
Join The Superior Labor for a hands-on workshop where you'll customize your own canvas pouch with paint, leather embossing of leather pull tag, and exclusive stamps. Choose from a Texas-inspired color palette and decorate with original TSL stamps, plus a special stamps and leather tags designed just for this workshop by eric! No experience needed - just enjoy the creative process!
PRICE:
PRICE:
- $140 (includes admission ticket and M size Canvas Pouch with leather pull tab)
- $150 (includes admission ticket included an L size Canvas Pouch with leather pull tab)
ATTENDEES: 35 (Open to all levels)
WORKSHOP 2: eric Eraser Stamp Carving Workshop Ticket
WORKSHOP: August 22, 23, 24
- 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM / 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
WORKSHOP TIME: 2 hours
DESCRIPTION:
Join Japanese artist eric, a pioneer of eraser stamp art, for a hands-on workshop where you'll carve your own stamp using her original illustration. She will guide you step by step through the carving process. All materials - including a carving kit you can take home - will be provided. eric will also bring her hand-carved Texas exclusive stamps, along with many of her other eraser stamps, for you to stamp in your notebook. It's a rare opportunity to stamp with eric’s personal eraser stamp collection - something you don’t often get to experience! No experience necessary - just come and have fun!
PRICE:
- $150 (includes admission ticket and eraser stamp kit)
ATTENDEES: 20 (Open to all levels)
Fun Activities
Japanese Traditional Washi Paper Postcard Making (1 hour)
PRICE：$50 (includes variety washi paper pack / You need to buy admission ticket separately)
ATTENDEES: 20
PRICE：$50 (includes variety washi paper pack / You need to buy admission ticket separately)
ATTENDEES: 20
We’re excited to welcome Mr. Hiroshi Ishikawa from Echizen City, a region with over 1,500 years of washi-making history. His family has been making washi paper since the Edo period and once supplied high-grade currency paper for the Japanese government. At the event, you’ll get to create your own handmade washi postcard and stamp it with a special eric-designed signature seal. You’ll also receive a pack of assorted washi papers to take home. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience the beauty of Japanese craftsmanship!
Paper Buffet & Notebook-Making (1 hour)
PRICE：$50 (You need to buy admission ticket separately)
ATTENDEES: 20
Yoshikawa Paper, founded in 1909, has long specialized in both traditional and modern Japanese papers. They invite you to experience the charm of Japanese paper through a special activity where you can create your own A5 slim-size notebook. You’ll choose from 30 different types of paper, each with its own unique texture and character, and bind them together by hand with thread to make a notebook that’s truly personal. To complete your creation, you can choose from three exclusive cover designs by eric. We hope you enjoy this fun and creative experience!
ATTENDEES: 20
Yoshikawa Paper, founded in 1909, has long specialized in both traditional and modern Japanese papers. They invite you to experience the charm of Japanese paper through a special activity where you can create your own A5 slim-size notebook. You’ll choose from 30 different types of paper, each with its own unique texture and character, and bind them together by hand with thread to make a notebook that’s truly personal. To complete your creation, you can choose from three exclusive cover designs by eric. We hope you enjoy this fun and creative experience!
Original Gachapon (No reservation needed – buy your ticket at the venue!)
PRICE: $20 for eric gashapon (3 try) / $25 for regular gashapon (5 try)
Gachapon are small capsule toys dispensed from vending machines. The fun is in the surprise — you never know what you’ll get! The name comes from the sounds “gacha” (turning the handle) and “pon” (the capsule dropping out). To share a bit of Japanese pop culture, we’re bringing five gachapon machines to the venue! In the eric gachapon, you'll find 10 original rubber stamps designed just for this event. The other four machines are filled with fun surprises from Papier Platz, including miniature stationery and more. Some capsules even contain special prizes, so don’t miss your chance to play!
PRICE: $20 for eric gashapon (3 try) / $25 for regular gashapon (5 try)
Gachapon are small capsule toys dispensed from vending machines. The fun is in the surprise — you never know what you’ll get! The name comes from the sounds “gacha” (turning the handle) and “pon” (the capsule dropping out). To share a bit of Japanese pop culture, we’re bringing five gachapon machines to the venue! In the eric gachapon, you'll find 10 original rubber stamps designed just for this event. The other four machines are filled with fun surprises from Papier Platz, including miniature stationery and more. Some capsules even contain special prizes, so don’t miss your chance to play!
Meet-up Table with craft supplies (free)
We’ll have a Meet-Up Table where you can freely use a variety of craft supplies! The table will be stocked with lot's of washi tapes, stickers, stamps, stamp inks, pens, memo pads and more - all ready for you to enjoy! It’s a great place to relax, get creative, and connect with fellow stationery lovers at the event. If you have any fun supplies you'd like to share, feel free to bring them along - we’d love to see what you bring!
We’ll have a Meet-Up Table where you can freely use a variety of craft supplies! The table will be stocked with lot's of washi tapes, stickers, stamps, stamp inks, pens, memo pads and more - all ready for you to enjoy! It’s a great place to relax, get creative, and connect with fellow stationery lovers at the event. If you have any fun supplies you'd like to share, feel free to bring them along - we’d love to see what you bring!
Are there any parking at the location?
The venue has a free parking lot across Spring Street that fits up to 70 cars. If the lot is full, there is plentiful free street parking all around the venue.
What is the cancellation policy? Can I get a refund on my tickets?
All admission ticket sales are final and cannot be refunded or transferred. Workshop tickets are non-refundable as well, but they can be transferred to another person. If you’re unable to attend your workshop, feel free to send someone in your place - just let us know in advance so we can update the name on the ticket.
If I miss my workshop may I receive a refund?
If you miss your workshop without prior notice, we’re unfortunately unable to issue a refund. However, if you contact us in advance and we’re able to fill your spot, we’d be happy to arrange a refund.
Can children attend the marketplace? If so, do they need their own admission tickets?
Children of all ages are welcome to explore the marketplace with you! Admission is free for children aged 8 and under. Please note that only umbrella-style (single-seat) strollers are permitted - larger strollers will not be allowed inside due to the limited floorspace of the venue.
Am I allowed to bring a wheeled cart or suitcase onto the exhibit floor?
Due to limited floor space, wheeled carts and luggage are not allowed on the exhibit floor. Howeverr wheelchairs and mobility scooters are welcome for guests with disabilities.
What is the payment method at the event?
We accept credit card payments only. When you are ready to check out, please head over to the cashier inside the market place on the first floor.