## What Is Daigo Factory?
Daigo Factory is a notebook maker that started in 1944 in Nara, Japan. For many years, people have used the notebooks made here to write their diaries, plans, and notes. But these notebooks are not ordinary; each one uses a special technique called **Ito Toji**, which means "string binding".

## What Is Ito Toji?
**Ito Toji** means “wrapping with a string.” The pages of a notebook are tied together with a thick string. This helps the pages stay safe even when the notebook is opened and closed many times. The string goes around the edges of the pages and holds each page together, so the notebook stays strong all year long.

## How Is It Made?
1. **Paper Preparation** – Over 100 workers at the factory cut big rolls of paper into individual pages. Each page is cut to the same size for the notebook.
2. **Choosing the String** – The string is made from a strong but light fabric. Workers place the string along the edges of the pages.
3. **Binding Process** – The string is threaded through the edges of the pages and tied, making a little “knot” that connects every page.
4. **Final Check** – A quality‑control team looks at each notebook. Are the pages tied correctly? Is the string tight enough? When everything is a big yes, the notebook is packed.

## Why Is It Special?
- **Durability**: The string‑bound notebooks keep their pages safe even if you open and close them a lot.
- **Looks Nice**: The string adds a stylish touch to the outside of the notebook.
- **Eco‑Friendly**: The string is made from recyclable material, so it doesn’t hurt the planet.

## Did You Know?
- **History of the String**: The string‑binding technique started in ancient China over 2,000 years ago.
- **String and Health**: Playing with the string can make your hands and fingers stronger.
- **Natural Colors**: Daigo Factory uses colors that come from plants, making the notebooks both beautiful and kind to the earth.

## Questions Kids Might Ask
- **How strong is the string?**
The string can last for about 10 years, even if you open and close the notebook every day.
- **Why are string‑bound notebooks a bit more expensive?**
Because each notebook is made by hand and has many steps.
- **Can I make my own notebook?**
Yes! You can try a simple notebook at home with a bit of string and some paper.

## How It Helps Kids
- **Reading Habit**: Writing in a diary helps kids practice reading and writing.
- **Creativity**: Making your own notebook lets you show your imagination.
- **Caring for the Earth**: Using natural colors and recyclable materials teaches kids to think about the environment.

## Summary
Since 1944, Daigo Factory has been making special notebooks that are tied together with a magical string. These notebooks are strong, stylish, and good for the planet. They are also a great learning tool for kids – they help you write better and spark your creativity. One day you can try making your own string‑bound notebook and discover Daigo’s magical strings.

## The Future
Daigo Factory plans to use even more earth‑friendly materials in the future. They also want to hold workshops for kids, so you can practice your hand skills and let your creativity shine.