Furoshiki embraces the philosophy of sustainable living. This beautiful and ingenious art allows one object to have many uses by simply folding and tying the cloth in a different way.
When it comes to gift-wrapping furoshiki is the perfect way to convey thoughtfulness and courtesy through the care taken in the choice of wrapping and in the way the fabric is folded and tied.
While Japanese culture is not alone in using fabric wrapping, Furoshiki is specific to Japanese culture for the way in which it represents ceremony, beauty, a considered approach to the everyday and an appreciation of the multifunctional.
One furoshiki cloth can be used for:
- wrapping a gift
- a bag for shopping
- a picnic hamper
- a tablecloth
- household decor
- a scarf, belt or bandana
- wrapping clothes when travelling
Image credit: Japanese Department of Environment
Including some instructions on how to tie a furoshiki as part of your gift is a nice touch, and it's also great to give the person a demonstration to show them just how easy it is. This ensures your furoshiki has a high chance of being passed on and spreading an eco-friendly fabric wrapping message on its journey.
Wrapping that become gifts themselves
|
|
|
|
Image credit: In Bed
There are many ways to practice Furoshiki, and the most simple basic carry-wrap (Otsukai Tsutsumi) takes only seconds, a neater and more efficient way to wrap than paper.
