What is furoshiki?
Furoshiki (風呂敷) are traditional Japanese square-shaped cloths that have been used for centuries to wrap and carry gifts and groceries. Today, furoshiki are still used in Japan, but they are also becoming increasingly popular around the world.
These beautiful Japanese wrapping cloths are a sustainable alternative to wrapping paper. If you’ve ever thought about fabric wrapping or reusable wrapping options, we recommend trying one!
Our double-sided furoshiki wraps are even more special. They’re handcrafted in Sri Lanka from 100% recycled saris, a traditional Indian garment made from a single piece of woven fabric that’s wrapped around the body. This makes every furoshiki wrap completely unique with their different patterns and vibrant colours.
How do you use furoshiki?
Furoshiki is very easy to use. In fact, we think it’s easier than using a roll of wrapping paper - and there’s no need for tape and scissors!
Here’s how to wrap a gift using furoshiki:
Top tip: If you are wrapping a fragile item, be sure to pad it with bubble wrap or tissue paper before wrapping it in furoshiki.
- Lay your furoshiki cloth on a flat surface and place the gift on top, in the centre, with one diagonal corner of the cloth pointing towards you.
- Take the corner closest to you and fold it over the gift, tucking in the extra cloth underneath the gift.
- Repeat with the opposite corner that’s furthest away from you, making sure to tuck in the extra cloth at the bottom.
- You’ll be left with two narrow sides to your left and right. Fold and twist each side and bring both corners towards the centre in a straight line, then tie them in a square knot at the top of the gift.
There are many different ways to tie knots in furoshiki. Experiment with different knots to find one that you like and that is secure. You can also use ribbons, flowers and other decorations to embellish your furoshiki wrapping!
Did you know? In Japanese culture, the tradition is to return the furoshiki back to the gift giver, but they also make a lovely part of the gift itself.
What are some creative ways to use furoshiki?
While our furoshiki are designed to wrap gifts or carry groceries, there’s nothing stopping you from using your reusable fabric wrap for other things.
You could bundle a bottle of wine or picnic lunch. Drape one around your neck as a stylish scarf. Tie two corners into a knot to create a handle for a daytime carry bag. Use it as a tablecloth for indoor or outdoor dining, or a stylish furniture covering for armchairs or sofas. You could even hang them on your wall as a decorative tapestry.
Made from beautiful recycled saris, our multifunctional furoshiki wraps are perfect for adding a pop of colour and style to any aspect of your life. A great little gifty thing that would make a nice present for friends and family, or a little treat for yourself!
What are the benefits of using furoshiki?
If you’re tired of wasting endless rolls of wrapping paper and fighting to fold it just right, our furoshiki fabric wraps offer an easy, eco-friendly gift wrapping solution.
Not only are they reusable, they’re also made from recycled saris which makes them one of a kind and good for the planet.
These colourful squares of fabric are incredibly versatile and convenient: you can neatly wrap gifts of any shape or size without needing tape or scissors, or use for decoration or accessories.
And, when the gift is unwrapped, the beautiful furoshiki becomes part of the gift itself - a thoughtful reminder of sustainability that can be cherished again and again.
How can I use furoshiki to reduce waste in the UK?
What we love the most about our recycled sari furoshiki is that they are eco-friendly and reusable.
With over 227,000 miles of wrapping paper used each year in the UK, much of which cannot be recycled, our furoshiki wraps provide a zero waste wrapping alternative.
Instead of adding to the 108 million rolls of wrapping paper that’s thrown away at Christmas, use sustainable gift wrap like furoshiki and reduce your environmental footprint during the festive season.
But furoshiki aren’t just for Christmas… They’re great for birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, and every special occasion you can think of.
Not only can they reduce waste and replace endless rolls of single-use paper, but furoshiki wraps become part of the gift themselves and can be reused over and over again. We couldn’t think of anything better!