Furoshiki – Green, Earth Friendly Re-usable Wrapping Cloth

What a fantastic way to benefit the earth, the environment, and yourself!

The Japanese art of wrapping anything in a reusable piece of fabric, often a square, is the trendy way to present gifts. The word is pronounced close to "f'-ROHSH-kee," and in my book it’s pronounced “Brilliant.”

The squares are hemmed on all sides, so they do not unravel during use and re-use. Generally, they measure from 17 inch (43 cm) to 41 inch (105 cm) squares. Also, in Japan they tend to use a patterned cloth. However, any cloth that suits your fancy will do the trick.

Reusable cloth – saves money

Washable re-usable cloth - clean and safe for one’s health

Aesthetic joy – choose colors and patterns which bring a smile to your soul. You can also re-purpose scarves and men’s handkerchiefs, or excess fabric. (If you are a sewing person, you KNOW what I mean.) Sure beats the mainstream everybody’s-got-it gift wrapping paper

Creative fulfillment – you still have the ability to make the gift wrapping fancy and “ooooh” inspiring. For those people who like to devote as much energy to the “presentation” as to selecting the gift, this is a bonus.

By world, I mean your neighbors, your community, your future grandchildren – and you, of course. The less trash we humans make, the better. Using furoshiki for wrapping eliminates waste products such as paper or plastic.

I especially like the following videos demonstrating wrapping techniques.

There are many great hubs and articles on its history. This hub invites you to consider using this method for wrapping anything and everything.

Photo and text copyright 2011 Maren E. Morgan, all rights reserved.