Chinese New Year February 7, 2008 Chinese New Year is recognized on the Lunar calendar (hence it is also known as Lunar New Year).  It is celebrated on the first day of Lunar February until the fifteen of February.  This old Asian tradition is still celebrated today with great intensity, especially in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Vietnam (Tết).  Visit Hong Kong during new years, and you will witness a city transformed into a giant carnival of sorts. Basically, in February,  Hong Kong looks [...]

This lantern is what you will see all over Chinatown during New Year celebrations. Not because it is the most traditional or best looking, but mostly because it is available in abundance and the best value. It also gets the job done. The symbol means good luck. The color red is a must, and it even includes a Feng Shui tassel. All for $18. Not bad for twelve Good Luck Paper Lanterns.

Okay, does this make you want to send a Lunar New Year gift or what? If you know an stamp collector, you must get this for them!  Imagine their surprise! I think these are fantastic. For some odd reason, I’ve become a big fan of fancy stamps recently. I’m not sure why, since I  rarely ever responded to past designs (you know the ones I’m thinking of… the ones of Elvis or ice figure skating or the single red rose.) [...]

  I know what you’re thinking. Isn’t origami a traditional Japanese craft? Yes, it is.  However, it is just as popular with other Asian cultures, especially in China. It is not uncommon to find origami as part of New Year decorations.  I’ve always wanted to learn how to make origami, but I’m a bit intimidated. Besides, it will not do my OCD tendencies any good.   If you would like to give it a try or know someone [...]

  How gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous is this origami paper?!? I often use origami paper as gift wrap, but I’ve never used paper this fancy.  What fabulous red envelopes one could create with this pattern.  Of course, any origami made by this fancy paper would look simply amazing.  $7.96