Unique Gift Wrap - Handmade Gift Paper
When a special gift giving occasion comes up we look for ways to express that special feeling of friendship. For special projects you’ve probably already collected a few ideas to set you on the way. One way to do this is, like an architect, start with a good foundation.
Start your project with a visit to an arts and crafts store. Here you will find a world of materials that can put an exotic look to your project. Visit the section of handmade papers and you will find a world of colors blended with patterns and textures to delight the senses. At first glance they may seem a bit expensive but really, they are less than comparable sheets that size.
You will find these unique papers in a variety of effects including coarse fiber textures that give a very sensual look. This unique gift wrap can be a challenge to fold but don’t reject papers with flowers and leaves imbedded just because they may be hard to work with. The secret here is to measure carefully and score before actually wrapping. The best way to do this is to use a measuring tape, rather than a ruler, and measure carefully.
Knowing a little about various paper will give greater appreciation for the makers work and is something that can be passed on to the gift recipient. For each type of paper is made a little differently, according to the nature of the fiber and the desired texture. With a little experience you should be able to tell the difference between rice and mulberry paper or say sugar paper which has a very coarse texture. Some of these are more suited for other uses, like delightful gift tags and greeting cards for which folding is not an issue.
One of the unique features of handmade paper is the deckled edge. Because of the way it’s made, this irregular edge is a natural occurrence and can be used to good purpose. All it takes is a little preplanning. To put this deckle to good use it needs to be on the top of the box. Which means wrapping the gift up side down - or at least partially. The overlap will be on top but the end flaps will still be folded down in the usual way. Finish it off with tie and bow made from several colors of yarn twisted together and you have a wrap.
You can make the most the deckled edge in many ways by making your own. It works best with thicker colored paper but any paper will do. Do this by hand tearing the edge. Tearing the paper towards you will give a white edge, if using printed paper. Tearing away will give a cleaner edge.
If you think you would like to try your hand at making paper, you will be entering a century’s old tradition with an opportunity to create your own unique style. The process is simple enough for beginners to get started. Considering the roots of this craft, it’s not too surprising that only a few tools are need. A short checklist would include a kitchen blender, a mold and a press. Old office copy paper is a good starter for paper pulp. Small experiments in paper making can be useful for gift cards, giving you yet another avenue for unique paper solutions.
In the world of handmade papers there are many varieties to tickle your fancy. Just keep your head about you while you are shopping these unique papers and pick a one that matches the mood and occasion. The results will bw be a big success.
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