Making Reusable Fabric Gift Wrap
Every year, I wrap all my holiday gifts using fabric. It's practical, beautiful, and doubles as a handmade gift in itself. How great is that?
I've been sewing up different sizes of fabric panels for wrapping gifts. They're simple and quick to make- just hem the edges of a square piece of fabric, and you're ready to go.
What are Furoshiki and Bojagi?
Furoshiki are traditional Japanese wrapping cloths used for covering, carrying, wrapping gifts and everyday items. Depending on the size, a Furoshiki cloth can be used as a napkin, a picnic wrap, a table covering, or for bundling clothing and accessories while travelling.
Similarly, Koreans have long used Bojagi - a patchwork panel or a whole cloth - for wrapping necessities during travel and for presenting gifts. This method is a wonderful way to upcycle fabrics and showcase special pieces from your stash.
For Bojagi inspiration, look up textile artist Youngmin Lee, who recently published Bojagi: The Art of Korean Textiles.
Whether your fabric panel is pieced or made with a single cloth, it's a beautiful and resuable way to wrap gifts.
Furoshiki Sizes
Typical furoshiki sizes range from,
- Mini/Small: 30-50cm / 12-20" for jam jars, candles, books, lunchboxes.
- Medium: 70cm / 28" for wine bottles, clothing, books, toys.
- Large: 90-120cm / 35-47" for multiple items, board games, larger gifts.
For wrapping, the object should be approximately one-third of the furoshiki's diagonal line.
Edging and Decorating
You can finish the raw edges in several ways: with a sewing machine, a serger, or by folding the edge under twice toward the wrong side and stitching it by hand (as shown in step 2). Adding a small sprig of fresh greenery at the knot gives the gift a festive, cozy touch.
These reusable wraps come together quickly, and your gifts will look warm, thoughtful, and unique.
Furoshiki Gift Wrapping
For this post, I used a beautiful lightweight woven cotton: Boro Wovens, by Debbie Maddy in Flax Diamond for Moda. The size is 18" x 18".
Try wrapping a gift or two using Furoshiki - you'll love how beautiful it looks. And before you know it, you'll start your own furoshiki collection to use and share.
Happy crafting and gifting!
Wishing you peace, love, kindness, and gentleness.
Warmly,