One Per Person: The Convenience of a "My Own Ashtray"

While smokers find themselves increasingly marginalized these days, we'll ignore that reality for now and introduce some tobacco-related products. First, let's talk about the mini ashtrays I bought in bulk for guests.

I call them "my own ashtrays," and their compact size, similar to a cigarette case, is just so charming and appealing. Everyone has their own way of smoking, and that extends to how they extinguish their cigarettes. Crushing them out can scatter ash, and often the ember isn't fully out, leading to accidental fires. Some people simply cannot tolerate this. If everyone has their own ashtray, there's no need to worry about such etiquette.
Incidentally, the product packaging clearly stated "5mg PAPER 100mg ASHTREY" alongside the ingredient list. The fact that such playful touches are permissible is part of what makes tobacco-related goods so interesting.

An Approach of Display, Not Concealment

Around the time that warnings about health hazards became mandatory on cigarette packs, I started seeing paper covers in overseas kiosks designed to "hide" these messages. It's understandable, as no one wants to be reminded of dire warnings every time they smoke. In fact, M.Y. Label also produced cigarette cases (photo above). However, I chose an approach that deliberately "displays" the warning area, not to hide it, but as a message.

The peace sign covering the warning text means "Be friendly with non-smokers." It conveys the message that while smoking is a personal choice, it's paramount not to inconvenience others. As a final touch, the bottom is engraved with "Let's observe proper etiquette" in English.
With its linear design, one might assume it's simple to construct, but it was surprisingly difficult. During the process of soldering the five silver plates, when attaching one piece at a time, the previously attached sections would detach due to the heat. Therefore, it required advanced craftsmanship to solder all five simultaneously without leaving any visible solder marks. I pleaded with the artisan, and they eventually managed to complete it.

The ironic twist is that it didn't sell at all... but that's part of its charm.