Eco-Friendly Gift Wrap

Furoshiki Cloth from JUN Japanese Gifts and Souvenirs

As we make efforts to practice a "greener" lifestyle, here is a great idea for wrapping gifts with flair, imagination, and reusable materials. It involves the Japanese art of Furoshiki.

Shibori Omiyage
Uploaded on April 15, 2008 by glennisd - Flickr.com*

Furoshiki.com has this to say: "Originating from Japanese culture where it promotes caring for the environment and reducing waste, furoshiki is the eco-friendly wrapping cloth. Using techniques similar to origami, it can be used for gift wrapping, grocery shopping or simply as decor. Choose from a wide variety of sizes and designs to complement your lifestyle.'

"Why furoshiki? It is reusable and multipurpose. Each year billions of plastic bags end up as litter; reusable bags, such as furoshiki can help reduce the impact to our environment. Its versatility allows you to wrap almost anything regardless of its shape or size."

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The younger Japanese generation had considered this art to be passé, that is until communities became more conscientious about reducing waste. Furoshiki is now enjoying a resurgence of popularity, interpreting beautifully into handbags and purses.

I have often used scarves, bath linens, and fabric scraps to create wraps that make a statement. One of my favorite uses of furoshiki is to wrap guest favors in a functional cloth dinner napkin.

Since pre-sewn or homemade furoshiki wraps require an investment (full price or discounted), I like to insure that the fabric will be perpetually forwarded. If the recipient has no interest in recycling the cloth, I politely ask for permission to reuse the wrap for a future gift.

Furoshiki Links:

• Kakefuda Kyoto - Famous Furoshiki Store (YouTube video on making Furoshiki bags and purses)
• Serena Fenton's Layers of Meaning
• Maureen's "water :: earth :: wind :: fire"
• DIY Definitions - Furoshiki (there is a plethora of information here)
  

* Shibori Girl explains that "omiyage" means "gift" in Japanese. The above photo shows a silk pillow filled with lavender and wrapped in a mini shibori furoshiki. The embellishments include a jeweled button at the center and a silk shibori ribbon flower.