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Gifting has always been a universal act of love and appreciation. From birthdays to weddings, presents have had a consistent presence in our lives. But have you ever stopped to think about the history of that vibrant wrapping paper that adds an extra sprinkle of excitement to every gift? Join us on this intriguing journey through time as we explore the past, present, and future trends of wrapping paper.
The act of gift-giving is as old as human civilisation itself. However, the tradition of wrapping these presents is believed to have started in ancient China during the 2nd century BC. The earliest records indicate the use of chih poh, a delicate paper made for wrapping and padding purposes. Over time, this practice spread across Asia, with countries adopting their own unique styles.
In the West, the act of wrapping gifts started much later. Fabric, leather, or even simple brown paper were employed. But everything changed in the early 20th century when wrapping paper as we know it was birthed.
The game-changer for the Western world came in 1917 in the US. After running out of traditional tissue paper, a store started selling decorative envelope liners as wrapping paper. The rest, as they say, is history. The concept quickly caught on, and soon, dedicated wrapping paper began to appear in all shapes and colours.
Australia wasn’t far behind. By the mid-20th century, Aussies were wrapping their gifts in decorative paper during festive occasions. Popular designs included native flora, fauna, and iconic Australian landscapes.
Initially, decorative wrapping paper was a luxury, reserved for special occasions and the wealthy elite. But as manufacturing processes evolved, it became more affordable. Today, with countless designs available, it’s almost a faux pas to present an unwrapped gift, regardless of the occasion!
In recent years, a significant trend in wrapping paper is the shift towards sustainability. Australians, like many around the world, are becoming increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of single-use items.
As a result, recyclable, biodegradable, and even reusable wrapping options have surged in popularity. Fabrics like muslin or cloth-based wraps, inspired by the Japanese ‘furoshiki’, have seen a revival. Not only are these options eco-friendly, but they also add a touch of elegance and thoughtfulness to any gift.
Another prevailing trend is personalisation. From custom messages to photos and unique designs, there’s a move towards making every gift – and its wrapping – as unique as the individual receiving it. This bespoke touch makes the act of gifting even more special.
We live in a digital age, and even wrapping paper isn’t immune to technological advancements. The latest trend that’s catching on is the use of augmented reality (AR) in wrapping paper. Imagine giving a gift where the wrap comes alive with a personalised video message or animation when viewed through an AR app! It’s a thrilling blend of tradition and technology.
While international trends heavily influence the world of wrapping paper, there’s a significant push towards local and indigenous designs in Australia. From Aboriginal art-inspired patterns to the rich tapestry of Australian wildlife, there’s a move towards celebrating the country’s unique identity.
The history of wrapping paper is a fascinating reflection of societal evolution, changing values, and technological advancements. From the simple chih poh of ancient China to the interactive AR wraps of today, it has been a journey of innovation and creativity.
So, the next time you wrap a gift, take a moment to appreciate the rich tapestry of history and trends that go into that simple act. And if you’re looking for the latest and most unique wrapping options, remember to check out hampers.com.au – where every gift, and its wrapping, is a celebration!
Hampers.com.au is a luxury Hamper delivery service owned & operated by Interflora Hampers Australia.
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