As we approach the holiday season, we find ourselves bustling with festive preparations — decorating, planning menus, shopping and wrapping gifts. While traditional wrapping paper often dominates the season, there’s a special joy in embracing a more sustainable and creative tradition: wrapping gifts in fabric.
This ancient practice, known as furoshiki in Japan, dates back to the Edo period (1603–1868) when cloth was used to wrap belongings in bathhouses and markets. Over time, it evolved into an elegant art form for presenting gifts with care and intention. We’re thrilled that the art of fabric wrapping is making a comeback, offering a beautiful, eco-friendly alternative to paper. Each gift wrapped in fabric becomes a thoughtful and unique masterpiece.
In the spirit of the season, we couldn’t resist trying this beautiful tradition ourselves. Join us for a simple step-by-step guide to help you master the art of fabric wrapping and create your own special gifts this holiday season.
What You’ll Need:
- A square piece of fabric (approximately 50-70 cm) – this could be a tea towel, scarf, or leftover piece of fabric
- A gift
- Ribbon or decorative accents (optional)
Step 1: Lay Out the Fabric
Place your square of fabric flat on a surface, face down, smoothing out any wrinkles. Position your gift in the centre, on the diagonal.
Step 2: Fold the Corners
Take two opposite corners of the fabric and fold them over the gift, crossing them at the centre. This will begin to wrap the gift elegantly.
Top Tip: Fold the second flap over to create a clean edge. This not only looks tidy but also creates a pocket for a card later on.
Step 3: Tie the Remaining Corners
Pinch the remaining two corners of the fabric and pull them up over the gift. Tie them in a knot or bow at the top.
Step 4: Add Embellishments (Optional)
For a personal touch, consider adding a sprig of greenery or a small charm to the knot. You can also tuck a handwritten card into the fold created earlier. These simple details elevate your fabric wrapping from beautiful to extraordinary.
Another fantastic eco-friendly way to wrap your presents is by repurposing leftover wallpaper. Not only is this a sustainable option, but it also results in beautifully unique and colourful gift wraps. Whether you have a few scraps of wallpaper left over from a home project or you’re reusing an old roll, the patterns and textures will add a personal touch to your holiday gifts.
By embracing the art of fabric and wallpaper wrapping this holiday season, you’re not only creating unique, thoughtful gift presentations but also making an eco-friendly choice that adds a meaningful touch to every gift. It’s a beautiful way to spread joy while reducing waste and celebrating sustainability. Happy wrapping and Merry Christmas!