Wrapping may seem complicated for those who don't know how. How do you tie a ribbon? How do you make a bow? What about things that just don't come in a square-shaped box? How do you wrap a round box or a bottle? Jane Means has an answer for you in her creative tome for the festive season Giftwrapped.
Giftwrapped
Jane Means
144pp
695 baht
ISBN 978-981-07-8753-0
Available at Asia Books
"I've thoroughly enjoyed distilling all my gift-wrapping knowledge into this book, and I hope it encourages you all to get creative!" wrote Means, a professional gift-wrapper.
As it is now getting closer to Christmas, there is certainly one common thing on every joyous mind, a present. Most people run around looking for the perfect thing to give to someone as a love token or a sign of gratitude. But it's not all about what's hiding inside the box. Sometimes, the wow factor — or the real excitement itself — is in the sight of the colourful wrapping that adorns those boxes.
Wrapping is what designates things as presents, and how wonderful would it be to be able to wrap your own presents and put your own touch into the handiwork, making the gifts more meaningful as you put your effort in.
First, according to the author, you need to know your materials. And she urges everyone to be creative about this. Don't fuss if you can't find colourful paper because it is time for you to spice things up with your imagination. Means has suggested using a net, music script and fabric as a wrapper. And they don't need to be expensive. Sometimes, old materials work as well as the new, and they also give vintage vibes to accompany a perfect present.
After choosing ribbons and ornaments, we descend onto the wrapping realm, and this is where the fun really begins. You can go glam or retro with the looks, and Means has assembled a few different alternatives for you. The book also shows how to wrap things that are in awkward shapes like potted plants, and even ways to tie up your own flower bouquet and make a gift bag.
Wrapping a bottle of wine or champagne is not as difficult as it seems.
A bow doesn't have to always be tied at the centre. It could come at the side, or even a corner.
This art doesn't need to be all that girly. Here's some ideas for a more masculine touch.
Go for an instant eye-catching look with rich and bold colours embellished with sparkles.
Here's how you could make use of old maps or newspapers.
Double pleating with lace looks sweet and new. A rose also works as a good decoration.
Make your own gift bag from scratch.
Mix different colours and styles of materials.
