How to Gift Wrap Japanese Style

Custom wrapping is a great way to tie in beautiful papers used in your invitation with other areas of your special event. Present a fabulously wrapped present as a gesture of gratitude to your bridal party or add elegance and intrigue to your table top with wrapped favors your guests get to take home.

Using handmade papers and Mizuhiki paper cord, we show you a quick and easy technique inspired by the Japanese sense of style. We snapped pix while attending a hands-on workshop at the National Stationery Show. We had limited workspace so we had to execute this project on top of papers that went with the next project. Keep that in mind as you discern the images that illustrate each step.

Materials: Handmade papers such as Unryu (sheer mulberry paper with strands), Double-sided tape, Mizuhiki paper cords, a box.

Create a strip of paper from accent paper: Fold edge over 1
1/2" to 2", Moisten fold with wet cotton ball, Gently pull apart

Begin wrapping box with main paper

Position accent paper strip on top of on main
paper

Continue wrapping box, using a tiny bit of tape. Fold
in the ends as you would a typical gift wrap.

Tie 3 strands of Mizuhiki cord in square knot, then tuck the
ends inside the knot.


(Side View)

(Top View)

Our instructor was gift-wrap and Japanese papercraft expert Vicky Mihara Avery, producer and instructor on the Origami Workshop DVD lesson "The Japanese Art of Gift Wrapping." Using handmade papers from Mountain Valley Paper Company and Mizuhiki paper cords, Vicky shows how to layer, pleat, and tear papers for fast, easy and elegant results.

2009 National Stationery Show

If you follow us on twitter you know that we are at Day 2 of the National Stationery Show in NYC. We are here to discover new and wonderful design elements to add to our growing menagerie. We've already added papers ranging from 100% cottons to brocade silks and other exotic beauties that are as tactile as they are visually appealing. I can't think of any place I'd rather be right now than navigating this showroom of high fashion paper and unique accessories. I can't wait to start designing your dream invitation!

Seven Simple Questions to Ask Before Buying Custom Invitations

Before you commit to custom invitations, here are 7 prudent questions to ask.

1. What design elements are available to work with?
2. Will I have access to a designer during the entire design process?
3. Can we begin working even if I don’t know exactly what I want yet?
4. What if I don’t see exactly what I want in your portfolio/gallery?
5. How many changes am I permitted to make?
6. What turnaround time can I expect?
7. Must we meet in person in order to work together?

So that you may know us, we've answered those 7 simple questions below.

What design elements are available to work with?
We have over 10,000 materials available for your consideration, leaving your options for creating beauty and distinctive edge wide open. Swarovski crystals, rhinestones, pearls and beads are just a sampling of embellishments available to fashion stunning new looks. And when it comes to adding color, we offer more than just paper and ink choices. Our palette includes a garden of vibrant botanicals.

The work we do is completely personalized and one of a kind, created expressly for you and your special event. We invite couples to introduce their own design elements, for example sequins or lace from an heirloom wedding dress. We encourage them to express their personal style and create a look that is exclusively their own. Invitations made of unexpected materials such as fabric, wood, metal, and even acrylic are all within the realm of possibility. During our consultation we will brainstorm ideas and figure out what items will suit you best for your design needs.

Will I have access to a designer during the entire design process?
We believe that the only way to achieve the perfect representation of you and your event is through collaboration and dedication. During the entire design process you will have an open line of communication with a single designer.

Can we begin working even if I don’t know exactly what I want yet?
Absolutely! The process of creating the perfect statement for your special occasion starts with getting to know you. Each project begins with a complimentary consultation either by phone or in person. Discussing your personal style and tastes can lead us to an overall vision for your celebration. So don’t worry if you haven’t chosen colors, flowers or even the style of your dress. We will work with whatever information you can provide us. We can show you a collection of sample work to help stimulate your thinking.

What if I don’t see exactly what I want in your portfolio/gallery?
That’s fine! The purpose of the gallery is to give you an idea of the breadth and quality of our work and provide you with ideas for your project. Every aspect of a sample invitation set can be changed to fit your particular needs. We are capable of doing anything you need to do. Give us the parameters and we can execute it.

How many changes am I permitted to make?
There is no set limit of changes permitted. We promise that no design will go to print unless you are completely satisfied. During the design process you will have the opportunity to provide feedback and identify any modifications you want to make or new ideas you may wish to incorporate.

While excessive changes can affect the original agreed timeline, we are always willing to discuss your comments and will integrate your changes into a revised version that is submitted to you for approval. We want to make sure you get exactly what you want.

What turnaround time can I expect?
With custom design work, it is never too soon to get started, especially when embellishments start out as living flowers. Of course the more time we have to work with, the easier it is to achieve perfection. The timeframe we will ultimately agree to will depend on the complexity and scale of your project, anywhere from 8 weeks to 6 months.

Must we meet in person in order to work together?
Although Email is not necessarily a requirement we find it useful when working with clients near and far. We are willing to work with clients using the method of communication that fits their lifestyle or circumstances. Design drafts and proofs can be faxed or sent via post. Other delivery methods can also be arranged at the client’s expense. If you are located in the Southern California and would like to meet in person, this option is always available.

Interacting over the phone and email makes it easy to work with anyone no matter where they are in the world. Some clients, although local, might not have the time to meet in person and this is where modern technology is especially handy.

Visit Six Fabulous Private Gardens in Los Angeles

We of the Garden Conservancy, believe that the best way to learn about gardens and appreciate them, is to simply spend more time in them. Through the Open Days Program more than 300 of America's private gardens will become open to the public in 2009. This Saturday, May 9 you're invited to explore first-hand examples of outstanding design and horticultural practice that are growing in the Los Angeles Area.