Japanese Gift Wrapping For Zero Waste Holidays

2023 Author: Lynn Laird | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-21 21:10

This year, we're going to swap disposable paper for original, chic and eco-friendly gift wrapping! So, the editorial team invites you to be inspired by a Japanese tradition that dates back centuries and offers a stylish decoration and zero waste! Also known as Furoshiki, Japanese gift wrapping only requires beautiful fabric and one or two knots, nothing fancy! But where exactly does it originate from? What kind of fabric should I use? Does this method apply to all gifts? The answers to all your questions as well as many ideas for patterns and decorations in the paragraphs to follow!

Japanese gift wrapping says Furoshiki: origin and meaning

As a bonus, it should be clarified that it is notably the fabric, itself, which bears the name of Furoshiki and whose existence dates back to the Nara era between 710 and 794. Originally used to wrap and protect valuables during transport, it is now used to wrap Christmas gifts and not just. However, with the advent of the plastic bag, the Furoshiki fell into disuse until the Japanese Environment Ministry and environmental associations put it back into fashion due to environmental concerns.

Japanese gift wrapping can be made in a wide variety of fabrics and patterns to meet all tastes and requirements. No matter the occasion, the Furoshiki fabric will give your presents that little extra touch that your loved ones will certainly appreciate. Silk, cotton, viscose or nylon, traditional or contemporary patterns… this zen and environmentally friendly packaging should not be neglected at all.

In terms of colors and patterns, the choice of these depends on the occasion. Most often, bright colors such as red, purple (symbol of longevity), gold, and light green and blue are preferred. As for the patterns, we distinguish those plant and animal. Here are the most popular performances:

• Cherry blossom and plum tree.

• Chrysanthemum.

• Peony.

• Bamboo.

• Maple Leaf.

• Rabbit and crane.

So whatever the gift, this Japanese technique is an integral part of it and it is therefore important to choose a beautiful, elegant fabric in order to make an impact. For your information, you can find traditional models in specialty stores as well as in many sites on the web. But before looking at different glamorous decorating ideas, let's take a look at the techniques available.

How to make a Japanese gift wrap?

Offering various folding and attachment techniques, Furoshiki fabric allows for original, personalized and 100% ecological packaging. As already mentioned, it adapts to all types of packages but only on one condition: the fabric must be square. So don't hesitate to recycle your used clothes by cutting out squares. Another very practical idea is to use a pretty scarf or bandana to make the gift even more splendid.

Pay attention to the type of fabric! This should be thick enough so that it can hold up well. Give free rein to your imagination and play with colors by mixing different shades and prints.

* Image credit: The Japanese Ministry of the Environment

On the technical side, there are some from the simplest to the most elaborate and complex. And in order to better help us get started in this traditional art, the Japanese Ministry of the Environment has made available an explanatory image that you can see above. Bottles, round, square, rectangular or cylindrical objects, the Japanese gift wrap adapts to all shapes and sizes.



However, watching a video is always a good idea because this way you can more easily follow the different steps to be performed. And in this context, we present you two video tutorials illustrating the simplest techniques.



Japanese gift package ideas or how to design eco-friendly Zen packaging

The Japanese art of wrapping gifts with fabric is open to many interpretations and makes it possible to design a personalized and eco-responsible package. And since classic plastic and paper packaging inevitably ends up in the trash, the Furoshiki turns out to be a great alternative! Let's take a look at some glamorous decor ideas to suit any occasion!

The Japanese method of wrapping gifts in reusable fabric is as ingenious as it is elegant. What is more, it can be combined with a large number of accessories such as dried flowers, Christmas items, feathers, pine branches, pine cones, eucalyptus, lavender and so on.

Would you like to create a Japanese fabric gift wrap that promotes simplicity and boasts an elegant and contemporary design? If your answer is yes, here is an idea to copy without delay. To recreate it, get linen in a square shape as well as green elements like eucalyptus, leaves etc.

* Image credit: Manmadediy.com

Need last minute gift wrapping? No problem ! Opt for the Furoshiki whose practical method only requires a knot and voila! So, first choose your fabric, place it on a surface as shown above and place the gift on it. Then take the upper and lower corners and tie in a knot. Do the same with the other two corners. If desired, add a small decorative object but be careful not to overload the look.

We have told you many times about the winter decoration in eucalyptus, a star plant that guarantees an unmistakable green touch. So don't hesitate to invite it in your Japanese gift wrapping for a touch of originality and delicacy. Once the folding and the knots have been made, slip a small eucalyptus branch into it and that's it!

Have you just crafted a Christmas present but are you missing out on packaging ideas? So go for the Furoshiki and bring even more originality and personality to your creation. Incorporate a sprig of fir, tie a small ribbon and you're done.

As mentioned above, it is not at all mandatory to use a traditional fabric for the realization of a Japanese gift wrap. Buy a nice silk scarf and complete your gift in the most practical and original way.

And after exploring in more detail the Japanese gift wrap says Furoshiki, let's take a look at 15 glamorous ideas that are definitely worth our attention. So, let's get inspired!

Japanese-style packaging ideas for zero waste parties

The Furoshiki adapts to all shapes and sizes

Additional gifts slipped among the knots

Japanese gift wrap offer original design is 100% personalized

A little green touch is always welcome

Dried flowers and small decorative items for a delicate gift

Incorporate eucalyptus leaves and feathers to create a successful Japanese wrap

Wrap Christmas gifts in fabric and decorate them with pine cones and greenery

Japanese gift wrapping allows all kinds of additional decorations

Adopt the Furoshiki for more environmentally friendly parties

Accessorize the Furoshiki with small decorative details like stars, flowers and greenery

Dare to play with the colors and patterns of Furoshiki fabrics

Choose linen fabric to achieve a sober but elegant design