From Japan, temari balls Temari (手毬) balls are a form of Japanese folk art craft originating in China and introduced to Japan around the 7th century A.D.  Temari means "hand ball" in Japanese.  

Temari are highly valued and cherished gifts, symbolizing deep friendship and loyalty. Also, the brilliant colors and threads used are symbolic of wishing the recipient a brilliant and happy life. Traditionally, becoming a craftsman in Japan was a tedious process. Becoming a temari artist in Japan today requires specific training, and one must be tested on one's skills and technique before being acknowledged as a crafter of temari.