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Saturday, December 12, 2009

Wrapping up the holidays


Every year when the holidays come around, I like to unwrap gifts very slowly and carefully, thereby being able to save a considerable amount of beautiful wrapping paper, tissue, bows, and bags, which to my delight are recycled for the following year and sometimes even, two, three, or four. - In these eco-conscious times, that has been my small contribution to saving trees and the environment.

The other day, I came across an even better idea, the Japanese practice of “furoshiki.” It’s a traditional method of gift-wrapping, which in itself is almost an art form, but instead of using paper, one utilizes cloth cut in a large square.

This type of gift wrap can be brought into service year-after-year or fashioned into something else – what a deal! Trees are going to love you!

The video below provides a very simple step-by-step guide on how to wrap everything from books to bottles. Have fun – I know I will!

8 comments:

BarryGillogly said...

These look so nice it's almost a shame to unwrap them. Thanks!

Paula Slade said...

I agree Barry, they are beautiful, but the great thing is you can wrap many gifts or even create your own carry-all!

TallTchr said...

Luv it! Happy Hanukkah!

Paula Slade said...

Thanks TallTchr! Happy Hanukkah to you too - and a substantial win on the dreidel, unless of course you play for chocolates and golden raisins! Either way enjoy!! ;-D

Jo said...

Omigosh, Paula, that is wonnnnnderful...!

Thank you for sharing that. :-)

Paula Slade said...

You're welcome Jo! With your artist's eye I was hoping you'd like it! :)

Beth Blenz-Clucas said...

Genius! Thanks for the tips. Great way to use leftover fabric. I was recently in Japan, and saw this in a few places.

Paula Slade said...

Hi Beth - what a nice surprise, thanks for stopping by!! You're welcome about the wrapping tip - I was fascinated when I stumbled upon it. I would love to visit Japan someday, it's such a artistically rich culture, I'm sure you had a fabulous time!!