Serving Hohenwald, Lewis County Tennessee Since 1898

The Art Of Gift Wrapping

By Elissa Tracy

Series: Life as Art | Story 19

Beyond the anticipation of what lies within, the presentation itself has become an art form. From ancient traditions to the modern evolution of gift wrapping, it’s all in the details of creativity, culture, and expression.

Gift wrapping, in its essence, is a practice that dates back centuries. In ancient cultures, the act of presenting a gift was often accompanied by elaborate rituals and symbolic wrappings. In Japan, the art of Furoshiki emerged, employing intricately folded cloth to encase and adorn presents, embodying a harmonious blend of form and function. As societies evolved, so did the methods of gift presentation. In medieval Europe, gifts were often presented in ornate boxes with ribbons and seals, reflecting the opulence of the era. During the Renaissance, the concept of gift-giving became intertwined with the art of diplomacy and courtly love, elevating the importance of the wrapping as a symbol of the giver’s thoughtfulness and care.

The Victorian Era brought a surge of creativity to gift wrapping, with the advent of decorative paper and the use of lace, ribbons, and dried flowers. It was during this time that the first commercial wrapping paper became available. Fast forward to the present day, and gift wrapping has evolved into a thriving industry. Thanks to gift wrapping YouTubers and shows such as “Wrap Battle,” one can be inspired from minimalist chic to extravagant elegance; the styles of gift wrapping are as diverse as the gifts themselves. The commercial availability of an array of wrapping papers, ribbons, and embellishments has turned gift wrapping into an art form accessible to all.

The rise of DIY culture has inspired individuals to craft their own wrapping masterpieces, transforming everyday materials into unique and personalized gift coverings. Such as using plain craft paper, homemade book page paper rolls, or printing out custom-designed paper at home or with online manufacturers. This can also apply to creating custom name tags as well.

There is also a trend in gift wrapping to match the gift wrapping paper to the color theme of your Christmas tree, which is a designer favorite. For example, if your tree is adorned with peach and cream, garland, balls and ornaments, then your presents below match within this same respective color palette.

Gift wrapping is fun and shows a person’s personal style; every fold, every ribbon, and every choice of paper tells a story. From ancient rituals to modern trends, the art of gift wrapping has transcended its utilitarian origins, becoming a language of love, appreciation, and celebration. As we exchange gifts this holiday, let us not merely focus on the contents but also take a moment to appreciate the artful exteriora - testament to the thoughtfulness and creativity that goes into making the act of giving truly special.

 

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