In Japan, furoshiki (風呂敷) have been part of daily life for centuries, used to wrap, carry, store, and protect belongings of all shapes and sizes.
One account of their origins dates to the Muromachi period, when visiting feudal lords gathered at a shogun’s bathhouse. Each guest wrapped his kimono in a large square of monogrammed cloth while bathing, to keep the garments tidy and easy to identify. Then, when drying and dressing, the cloth was spread underfoot like a personal bathmat! From this story comes the name furoshiki-furo, meaning bath, andshiki, meaning to spread.
Furoshiki have long since moved beyond the bathhouse. Unlike their more formal cousins,fukusa, (used for formal gift presentation and tea ceremony), furoshiki remain humble, easy-to-use objects of a fundamentally practical nature. Use them to wrap, carry, cover, wear, and reuse.
Suggested uses
Wrap a gift, with the wrapping becoming part of the gift
Store jumpers and winter coats during the off-season
Use as a dust cover
Bundle picnic or lunch items
Knot a small furoshiki onto a bag, or tie a larger one into a bag
Wear as a pocket square, scarf, or ponytail tie
Hang in a window for privacy
Use as a towel in the bathroom or kitchen
Wear a large furoshiki as a beach cover
Tie up a towel and other beach gear
Remake as a cushion cover, pillowcase, tote bag, or patches
Hang on a wall or in a doorway
This furoshiki is an original vintage piece sourced in Japan and has already been of service. Minor signs of age and use are expected, including slight stretching along the diagonal weave, small marks, and loose threads. Please inspect all photographs and check the measurements carefully, as furoshiki come in a wide range of sizes.
100% cotton
measurements : 107cm x 107cm
An original vintage furoshiki sourced in Japan. A practical cloth for wrapping, carrying, covering, wearing, displaying and reusing.
