70 Years of Snap!

In 2026, OLFA proudly celebrates 70 years since Yoshio Okada invented the world’s first Snap-Off Blade Cutter—a revolutionary idea that changed cutting tools forever. Born in Osaka in 1931, Okada grew up in a family skilled in paper cutting and developed a fascination for blades early on. While working in a printing company in the 1950s, he became frustrated with how quickly razor blades dulled. Inspired by the clean break of glass and the segmented design of chocolate bars, he envisioned a knife with a blade that could be snapped off to reveal a fresh, sharp edge.

After years of experimentation, Okada perfected the design, establishing the ideal 59° blade angle and precise groove spacing that would become the global standard. In 1956, he produced thousands of handmade prototypes. When manufacturers rejected his idea, he founded his own company in 1967, later renamed OLFA Corporation in 1984. To make the cutters safe and recognizable, he introduced the iconic OLFA Yellow in 1967—a color that symbolizes safety, precision, and quality.

Today, OLFA’s Snap-Off Blade Cutters are trusted in over 100 countries and remain the foundation of our legacy. As we celebrate seven decades of creativity and craftsmanship, we invite you to explore our story and join us in shaping the future of cutting.

Join the Celebration!
Catch us at select tradeshows and follow along on social media for exciting giveaways, exclusive content, and 70th-anniversary surprises all year long!