A perfectly presented gift adds an extra bit of magic and sparkle on all occasions, but especially at Christmas. In Japan, the way a gift is wrapped is almost as important as what is inside the wrap. It is your opportunity to add your own personal touch and show your recipient that you have taken the care and time to offer them something thoughtful and beautiful.
Japanese and Korean gift-wrapping is incredibly beautiful with its origami-like folds and creases that creates something truly unique-looking. However, for those who don’t have the time or patience to learn, one of our favourite (and easy) ways to add a little something special to your wrapping style is tying in a sprig of something floral – fresh or dried.
If you decide to use fresh flowers or foliage, then we would recommend using something long lasting or that dries well so that it doesn’t wilt by the time you give your gift or while sitting under the Christmas tree. As a bonus, why not use something scented so that your gift does not only look stunning but smells wonderful too.
Here are some of our favourite long lasting fresh options for gift wrapping:
• Pine (Nothing smells more Christmassy than pine!)
• Eucalyptus Seed Pods
• Scabius Seed Pods
• Eucalyptus (Glaucesens is the best variety for an extra strong scent)
• Gypsophila
• Waxflower (Has a lovely lemony scent)
• Alder Twigs
• Spray Roses (It is best to let these dry naturally before using them to wrap your gift)
• Olive Leaf
Any dried flower or foliage makes a perfect addition too.
Once you have collected your favourite sprigs and twigs, all you need is to create your wrapped wonder:
• A sharp pair of scissors
• Washi tape
• Some ribbon or twine (even better if you have saved these from last year’s presents!)
• A roll of your favourite wrapping paper*
*We like to use brown florist paper for its beautiful simplicity – it is also suitable for all occasions, lasts years, and comes in handy for a multitude of other things too. Ask your local florist if they can source a roll for you.
