The simple art of Japanese papercrafts : 35 gift ideas for step-by-step oriental style

In Japan, to give a gift is to wrap one's heart. Centuries of old-style courtesy and a belief in the ideals of beauty, charm and delicacy are the basis of the ancient art of paper folding, originally developed as a means of giving and wrapping as well as an intricate, and fulfilling, way of creative self-expression. Oriental papers, too, have a long and elegant history as among the most venerated of Japan's artforms.

Following the upsurge in popularity of Oriental papers and patterns, it can be hard to believe that the vibrant colours and textures of traditional Japanese washi paper have been prized for no less than five hundred years.

Bright papers splashed with pink cherry blossom, pale blue papers textured and patterned like rolling waves, look so contemporary, and combined with authentic patterns can create lastingly beautiful, elegant gifts and home accessories. The Art of Japanese Papercrafts is the book that reveals the best of true Japanese designs and fine papers, focusing on understanding and using these precious materials in a modern and authentic style. Tokyo designer Mari Ono reveals the top Japanese techniques - origami and embellishment - in a range of 35 projects, each with foolproof step-by-step photographs, diagrams and templates to photocopy.

The projects range from greetings cards embellished with Oriental symbols of luck and love, such as the crane for New Year wishes, to a series of showpiece gifts: practical folders for home use, ingenious but simple storage boxes, lacquered dishes, table decorations such as cherry plates, and delicate light-filled paper lanterns for holiday.

With tips and variations throughout, this is the book that will show you how to create truly authentic Japanese papercrafts using the best of papers and materials from the modern East.