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| Small wrapping bag (right) and Furoshiki wrapping cloth (left) |
The ancient Japanese art of Furoshiki may appeal to those who love to wrap presents. The Japanese love to wrap things up. I loved how store clerks wrapped up my items when I was in Tokyo a few years ago. Beautiful bags, tissue paper, and even stickers are a must for every purchase. However, before World War 2, Furoshiki wrapping was a common way to carry items around.
If you want a super-easy way to wrap presents that does not require scissors, tape, or any special skills, then a wrapping bag is for you. Just place your item in the bag and tie with a ribbon.
You don't have to choose which one you want to try, because I'll show you how to make both at the same time!
How to use 1 yard of fabric
to make Japanese Furoshiki cloth and 1 small wrapping bag.
Materials:
1 yard of quilting fabric in a desired print or color (36" x 45")
Thread in a matching color
Sewing Machine
Fabric Scissors
Pinking Shears
Pins
Iron
Project Board (optional)
Furoshiki Cloth (30" x 30" Wrapping Sheet)
Lay out 1 yard of quilting fabric. If you bought it at a fabric store, it should be 36 inches by 45 inches.
Starting at one corner, measure and cut out a 32" x 32" square. You should have an L-shaped scrap left over. Save this for making the bag later.
Lay one edge of your square out on an ironing board, wrong side up, and fold up about 1/2 and inch, ironing with steam to make it stay in place. Turn that edge up once more and iron again. Your cut edge of fabric is now hidden. Secure with one or two pins. You may want to stick a pin in each corner to hold it down flat.
Turn fabric and repeat with all four edges.
Sew all edges down. Be sure to sew into the corners to secure them.
