This Japanese technique makes it possible to transform a simple handkerchief or a piece of unused fabric into an original gift wrapper. The furoshiki has variations that can offer anything from box to bottle.
There is a technique to give gifts without spending money on disposable paper or bows. He is known as furoshiki and comes from Japan. It involves taking a square or rectangular piece of fabric and performing a series of steps to cover bottles, boxes, appliances, or any small to medium-sized object.
For a long time it has gained popularity through social networks due to the benefits that its use entails. It is a method that combines care for the environment with the delicacy and decorative aesthetics that characterize Japanese art. Moreover, it can be applied in different formats and presentations. Let’s see more regarding this.
What is le furoshiki and where does it come from?
Furoshiki can refer to two things; on the one hand, to the oriental technique applied to wrap objects in order to transport or give them away. On the other, the fabric used for this technique, originally silk.
However, nowadays you can find specimens with different clothes, such as cotton or nylon; as long as they are resistant textiles. Apart from that, it encompasses a series of wrapping techniques, which become ideal for delivering birthday or Christmas presents.
In addition, it saves expenses on wrapping paper and plastic bags. These are among the most harmful polluting objects for the environment. For this reason, the Japanese government itself led a campaign to recover the traditional practice of furoshiki.
To do this, just take any fabric that we don’t use, be it handkerchiefs, tablecloths or shirts. After giving it a rectangular format, just follow a series of steps to wrap it using the Japanese technique.
Origin
The technique du furoshiki has ancient origins, dating back at least to the 8th century AD. At that time, it was applied to guard Buddhist relics. Later, the nobility began to use it to store clothes. Especially during the Heian period (794-1185), the last considered a classical period in Japanese history.
However, it gained its greatest popularity during the Muromachi era. That is, between the years 1333 and 1573., Also during the Edo, which happened between 1603 and 1868. It is therefore a practice with centuries of history. The term spread with Japanese baths, known as the onsen.
With the handkerchief called furoshiki, participants would wrap their clothes before immersing themselves in the hot springs, so as not to get confused when picking them up. This explains the literal translation of the term, i.e. “bath cloth”. Decades later, merchants applied it to move their wares. Hence its derivation to common usage.
Signification
Like many terms and practices of Japanese origin, le furoshiki hides deep meanings in its application. In general, the art of wrapping involves a gesture towards the recipient. Beyond that, it expresses respect, devotion and love, which are encompassed in the term tsutsumu.
Also, when wrapping an object with fabric, it is necessary to close it with a knot. This knot brings together an expression of union between people or, in Japanese terms, musubu.
Read also: Oosouji: the Japanese method to clean your house and improve your health
5 ideas to apply le furoshiki
This technique works with any color and pattern, without the need for a particular fabric. The format of the furoshiki depends on personal taste and what is considered appropriate for the recipient. With flowers, polka dots or hearts, Japanese packaging decorates gifts in a subtle and aesthetic way.
With them, it is possible to pack clothes, toys, boxes, electronic devices and even glass bottles. They are even useful for creating a carrying bag. There are dozens of ideas and formats to apply it. We leave some of the most popular on social networks.
1. Gift bag
If you bought a gift from a store, it will likely come in a paper bag. This typical packaging can be embellished according to the principles of furoshiki. Just place it in the center of an elongated square scarf.
Then lift and tie the two ends of the same side to the handles. Do the same movement with the ends of the remaining side. Leave a free remnant of fabric to tie a final knot and deliver the gift more aesthetically.
2. General Furoshiki
The most common way to apply this technique is to place the object on one of the vertices of the spread out handkerchief. Then, take the opposite tip and cover it all by making a full turn on it.
The other two ends of the scarf will be free to lift up and tie a knot to seal the wrapper. Works great with notebooks, books and small accessories.
3. Pack the bottles
One of the most practical functions of the furoshiki is to wrap bottles of any material, including glass. The Japanese call it bin tsutsumi and it consists of placing the bottle upright in the center of the spread out fabric.
The next step is to take two opposite ends and join them with a knot on the beak. The remaining ends are gathered and tied in the center, edging the bottle to give it more protection.
4. Style boxes Furoshiki
A gift box can also be embellished with this technique. To do this, you need to place it in the center of the fabric, tie two ends on it and tie a top knot with the remaining sides.
This is a similar technique to stitch number 2, but the object is placed in the center. Also, it works for bulkier gifts, as long as the textile covers it in its entirety.
5. Bag with handle
To turn a scarf into a cozy bag with handles, take two large rings and place them on opposite ends of the fabric. Then, you will have to turn two ends around a hoop and tie them with a knot.
Then you need to perform the same action on the other side. When you lift it, you get a bag with grab handles and storage space.
Read also: How to use rice paper for decoration
Furoshiki : practicality, recycling and meaning
With each of these methods of packing objects according to the principles of furoshiki, you can get a new packaging that triumphs for its originality. At the same time, a deep sense of unity and respect is expressed through the emotional charge that this Japanese technique possesses.
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