FROM THE HEART TO THE HAND: The  Finishing Details of Thoughtful Gifting

FROM THE HEART TO THE HAND: The Finishing Details of Thoughtful Gifting

November 06, 2024

“For it is in giving that we receive” 

— Saint Francis of Assisi

With Purity of Intention

To give from the purity of heart derives an incomparable level of joy. Reflect upon a moment when you have been the recipient of someone’s heartfelt intentions. That feeling of joyful connection when attention has been directed specifically to you as demonstrated by the illuminated expression of the benefactor as you outwardly glowed in delight. These are the priceless moments that are not derived from monetary value but rather from purity of intention as expressed through thought and effort.


The Impact Of Pen and Paper

When giving, the consideration of the smallest details is instrumental in creating the largest impact. The most impactful are of little to zero financial cost and are channeled from the heart to the hand.


Words penned in a note clarify the rationale in choosing a specific gift and accentuate the elevated priority in thought directed specifically for the receiver. Along this sentiment, directing incremental attention to finishing the presentation with wrapping paper symbolizes care and as a bonus, adds both the elements of curiosity and anticipation.


Expression through creativity is boundless and includes ribbon, paper design and adornments, but the selection and inclusion of a specially chosen and thoughtfully written notecard deserves to be placed in the foreground. While envelopes are wonderful for protecting contents, they prohibit sharing the beauty and craftsmanship that have become synonymous with correspondence papers. A suggestion is to showcase the vessel of your thoughtful sentiments by easily incorporating a front “pocket” during the process of gift wrapping (see below for tutorial).




These details add a bit of time and thought by the giver, yet the supreme reward is that the entire experience is enriched with meaning and pride therefore bringing increased fulfillment and a sense of joy to both the giver and receiver.


Adornments add creativity and personalization, particularly when used in conjunction with plain kraft paper. Suggestions include ribbon of all types, buttons, novelty clips and wax seals (featured seal, Danielle Demers Studio).

Did You Know? 💡

Origins

The origins of wrapping gifts traces back to the use of reusable cloth in Japan during the 1600’s. As time progressed, the practice evolved across Asia and into Europe to include different materials and adornments. The adoption in the West was heavily influenced from contribution by the wealthy Victorians and their use of decorative paper finished with lace and ribbon. By the mid-1800’s, printed cards and eventually tissue paper became ever popular during the Christmas holiday, ultimately becoming an important part of the season in the United States (1) Today, the wrapping ritual has evolved to include papers of all designs finished with a wide array of adornments and used for celebrations throughout the year.


Sustainability and Brown Paper Bags

As a practice of sustainability, brown paper bags were repurposed by crafters for gift wraps leading to the discovery that the sturdiness was a solution for projects where traditional printed paper might be too delicate. (2). Now sold alone in multiple colors, this heavy substrate is extremely popular and serves as the perfect blank canvas to creatively enhance with embellishments, from simple to sophisticated.


(1,2) “The Surprising History and Evolution of Gift Wrapping.” Ribbon by Design, Ribbon by Design, 30 Nov. 2021, ribbonbydesign.com/blogs/default-blog/rbd-blog-the-surprising-history-and-evolution-of-gift?_pos=2.




TUTORIAL

When gift wrapping, adding a pocket for a note card is a simple and effective detail that emphasizes the beauty found in words and art.

source: Gift Wrapping Love

You Tube: @GiftWrappingLove





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