a history of furoshiki

Wrapping items is practiced worldwide across many cultures to carry belongings.  In Japan, the idea dates back to the Nara period (eighth century).

Furoshikis, a square cloth, became named and popularized during the Edo Period (1603-1868) as public bathhouses became common.  The word "furo" translates as bath and "shiki" means to spread.  These wrapping cloths were used to carry belongings to the baths and to spread upon the floor when stepping from the bath.

Around 1900 as textile production grew the tradition evolved to become the refined Japanese art of gift presentation.  Politeness, dignity and respect was expressed through a simple gift wrapped in a furoshiki.

By the 1940's the growth of foreign influences in post WWII Japan had seen the tradition decline to near extinction.  By 1970, with plastic boxes and bags as a common practice in Japan as in the US, the furoshiki was all but lost.  

Today the furoshiki has again been embraced for its ability to be used and reused to carry produce from the market, to wrap a lunch, use as a picnic cloth, to decorate your home, or to wrap a gift as an expression of care.

Ecoshikis invites you to join the tradition and spread the word of politeness, respect and sustainability.  Print your own free folding guide of 14 artful techniques at ecoshikis.com.

photo: Kakefuda, a famous furoshiki shop in Japan

an old, new idea

My coworker showed me an online illustration from the Japanese government on how to wrap furoshikis, an everyday cloth used to wrap and carry items.  The practice dates back to Japan's Edo period in the 17th century, though it is not exclusive to Japan.  

How simple and brilliant.  The concept of furoshikis is so relevant to our world today when we are trying to embrace more sustainable means and alter our lifestyles incrementally to reduce our impact on the earth.  

I have embraced the idea of furoshikis; I believe if I can make this change to eliminate plastic bags and paper wrapping in my life then I can advocate to others.  My coworker and I are now business partners; we're making furoshikis and educating people about the practice.  Please visit our website ecoshikis.com.  Are you interested in growing this idea in the United States?  We' love to hear your feedback.