The thoughtfulness of wrapping

Year-end Handicrafts Part 2

The thoughtfulness of wrapping

As the year comes to an end, there are more opportunities to wrap gifts.
Thank you to those who helped you, letters to family far away,
And a little treat for yourself.

However, the act of wrapping
It's not just about covering things.
It is a handicraft that gives shape to feelings.
It's like gently placing your inexpressible feelings in the palm of your hand.
It's a time of quiet consideration.

The culture of wrapping

The "culture of wrapping" has been deeply rooted in Japan since ancient times.
Furoshiki, Japanese paper, mizuhiki, cloth, bamboo bark.
There is meaning in the choice of materials, the way they are folded, and the way they are tied.

For example, when you unfold a furoshiki, it is just a piece of cloth.
However, wrapping creates the act of "giving."
And when you unravel it, the space for "receiving" appears.

Enveloping is not about creating boundaries,
It is a gesture that creates connections.

The seasonal atmosphere dwells in the materials

Materials that evoke a hint of winter are perfect for gifts in December.
Yuzu-colored Japanese paper, soot-colored bamboo string, and white cloth like that beneath the snow.
They embrace the stillness of the season,
It will gently bring a winter landscape to the heart of the recipient.

When we choose materials, we unconsciously
I think about the other person's life, their preferences, and their time.
This "careful handiwork" begins even before the wrapping.

The silence before wrapping

There is a moment when you stop in front of a gift.
How will this person take it?
"What kind of expression will he make when he opens this package?"

This time of imagination is the essence of the act of wrapping.
The sound of folding paper, the movement of hands tying strings,
All of this becomes a quiet dialogue with the other person.

In the silence before wrapping,
There is a vast space of emotion that is deeper than words.

Prayers put into Mizuhiki

Mizuhiki is not just a decoration.
The way it is tied is filled with wishes and prayers.

The "ume musubi" is a tight knot that is difficult to untie.
It is used to pray for longevity and stability.
The Awaji knot can be tied even stronger by pulling both ends.
This is the knot chosen when you want to deepen the bond between people.

The act of tying is
It's also about reconnecting relationships,
It is also a preparation for a new time.

Wrapping it up turns it into words

When you can't find the words to accompany a gift,
The way you wrap it can sometimes make a difference.

Carefully folded paper,
A straight string,
A small handwritten tag.

These are feelings that could not be put into words.
A quiet message that is conveyed gently.

By wrapping, we can express our gratitude and hope that you are well.
We deliver it in a tangible form.

Today's Extra Step

One day in December,
If you have something to give to someone,
Please enjoy the time spent wrapping.

Choose the material, think about how to fold it,
Put your wishes into the knot.

It's not just the recipient,
It's also a time to sort out your own mind.

And if you have nothing to give,
It's also nice to rewrap something you cherish.

For example, wrap old letters in Japanese paper.
For example, wrap your favorite dish in cloth.
For example, put a memorable photo in an envelope.

By wrapping, memories are quietly arranged,
The door to the new year is gently opening.