The overlap between stationery and textiles will never not fascinate me. After all, a great image is a great image, whether it is printed on paper or fabric. And in the case of wrappr, using fabric for giftwrap is a path to both sustainability and obtaining your very own piece of limited-edition art — but Founder Brittany Trafford actually draws on a 1,200+-year-old Japanese tradition for her brand’s inspiration.
The usage of furoshiki, AKA traditional Japanese wrapping cloths, dates back to as early as the Nara Period (710-784 AD), when they were used for securing the valuables belonging to Emperors. The tradition of wrapping or “tsutsumu” is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture. The careful wrapping of goods implies respect to the recipient, and as such, even the wrappings attain a certain value in and of themselves.
wrappr utilizes an ever-changing roster of independent artists for its designs, and each receives a portion of every sale. The wraps come in four sizes and cotton, recycled polyester, mulberry silk and polyester satin varieties. But, if you see a design you like, you’d better grab it, because it won’t be around for long. Here are a few that really speak to me that are currently in stock.
Agate, 18″ by Vivi Maidanik, on cotton
Rebirth, 18″ by Adam Klassen, on cotton
Loveholic, 18″ by Sophia Choi, on cotton
Cleanse, 35″ by lzysunday, on organic cotton
Crown, 28″ by Nina Clausonet, on cotton
Reign, 18″ by Nina Clausonet, on cotton
I think it’s easy to see how each elevates whatever is inside. And, I love the way Brittany really tells the story of each artist — and is always happy to hear from interested independant artists! She also has plenty of tutorials for end users.
It’s not really a surprise that wrappr has already collaborated with high-profile brands like Sephora, NOBU, Chloe and POOSH by Kourtney Kardashian. If you are in the trade and not quite ready for private label, just shop wrappr on Faire. Everyone else can start shopping here — and remember to keep coming back to see what’s new!
