For Kate Ceberano, the art of gift-giving is about the thought and care behind the gesture. As a child, she learned this through the beautifully wrapped gifts from her father’s Japanese karate friends. Her father, Tino Ceberano Hanshi, a 9th Dan Black Belt and pioneer of Goju karate in Australia, often hosted visitors from Japan who used furoshiki, traditional wrapping cloths, to present gifts. These vibrant cloths held deep meaning, and Kate cherished them for their beauty and the intention behind each one.

Kate would reuse these furoshiki – first for wrapping pretend gifts and later as stylish scarves – continuing the tradition of creativity and care. Now, in collaboration with the Australian Museum of Design, she has brought these memories to life through an exclusive furoshiki collection.

The colours used in furoshiki hold special significance in Japanese culture. Red symbolises life, energy, and protection. Orange represents courage and happiness, while blue conveys calmness and honesty. Yellow symbolises warmth and prosperity.