Layouts, Engraving & Typefaces

Create a Hanko That’s Uniquely Yours

Even with the same characters, a Hanko can look completely different depending on its layout and typeface.

At Pettan, we want you to enjoy creating a Hanko that feels uniquely yours by combining the layout, engraving, and typeface you like.

Here, we’ll introduce the options available at Pettan and show you how they can be combined.

Choose Your Layout

How the characters are arranged within the stamp face plays a big part in the overall look of your Hanko.
Pettan offers three main layouts: Standard, Double Ring, and Square.

Standard

A simple and classic layout where the characters are arranged within a single stamp face.
In Japan, this layout is commonly used for round personal Hanko engraved with a family name, given name, or both.

Double Ring

A traditional layout with text arranged in both an outer ring and a central area.
In Japan, this style is commonly used for round company seals, with the company name around the outer ring and a title or role in the center.

Square

A layout designed for a square stamp face.
In Japan, square Hanko are widely used in business as Kakuin, often engraved with a company or business name and stamped on documents, receipts, and other business materials.

Text Direction

By default, English text is arranged from left to right and top to bottom, while Japanese text is arranged vertically from top to bottom and right to left.
For Double Ring engraving, text around the outer ring is arranged clockwise.

If you have a different layout or text direction in mind, please let us know in the Special Instructions field when placing your order.

Choose What to Engrave

Once you’ve chosen your layout, decide what you’d like your Hanko to say.
You can keep things traditional with your name or company name, or create something more personal using words that are meaningful to you.

You can also use Kanji, Hiragana, or Katakana to give your Hanko a distinctly Japanese character.
Not sure what to engrave? Pettan can also help you choose your engraving text.

Choose Your Typeface

The typeface is one of the most important elements in determining the overall character of your Hanko.
Many different styles have traditionally been used for Japanese seals. At Pettan, we’ve selected three distinctive options: Tensho, Inso, and Koin.

Tensho

Tensho is a traditional script that has been used for Japanese seals for centuries.
Its distinctive character shapes differ from modern Japanese writing, with balanced lines that give the design a classic, refined appearance.
Recommended for those who want to enjoy the timeless, traditional character of a Japanese Hanko.

Inso

Inso is a typeface developed from Tensho specifically for use in seals.
The strokes extend outward and connect with the surrounding border, creating an intricate and distinctive design.
Recommended for those looking for a more individual Hanko with a bold and memorable appearance.

Koin

Koin is a traditional Japanese typeface inspired by the character forms found on old Japanese seals.
Its slightly irregular, rounded strokes give the characters a distinctive warmth and handcrafted appearance.
Recommended for those looking for a Hanko with a traditional, approachable, and uniquely Japanese character.

Mix & Match to Make It Yours

In Japan, certain typefaces and layouts are traditionally associated with personal seals, company seals, and square business seals.
At Pettan, we respect these traditional Japanese styles — but we also believe Hanko can be enjoyed more freely.

There’s no need to limit yourself to traditional uses.
Try combining layouts, words, and Japanese characters in a way that means something to you.

For example:

Combine your name with a favorite phrase or personal motto using the Double Ring layout
Pair your profession or title with your name in a Double Ring design
Engrave a meaningful word instead of your name in a Standard layout
Use a shop name or brand name instead of a company name on a Square Hanko
Express yourself using Japanese characters such as Kanji, Hiragana, or Katakana

Now, take a look at how Pettan’s three typefaces across a variety of engraving styles and text arrangements create different Hanko designs.

	Tensho	Inso	Koin
Hiragana Vertical
Hiragana Horizontal
Katakana Vertical
Katakana Horizontal
English
Double Ring	*Created as an official company seal	*Created with a brand name + Japanese tagline	*Created with a name + profession
Square

Whether you prefer a traditional style or something completely your own, there’s no single right way to enjoy a Hanko.
Find the combination that speaks to you and create a Hanko that’s uniquely yours.