Furoshiki (Wrapping Cloth)

A furoshiki is a square piece of fabric that is used for wrapping items.
It is said that they have been used since the Muromachi period(1392-1573), so they have a very long history, but they are still much loved today and have a place in contemporary life.
They were first called furoshiki (bath cover) during the Edo period, when peopleused them to wrap their washing utensils on their way to and from the public baths.
Today they are used for wrapping, carrying, as gifts, and for gathering things together.
They can be used to create a kind of shoulder bag or to wrap a plastic bottle.
The methods of tying them continue to increase and diversify.
Their use and maintenance depends on the material, size, and design, and it is useful if you learn the few simple rules.
Silk is used for formal occasions such as giving presents or at ceremonial events; it possesses an elegant sheen, but is expensive and has to be dry-cleaned.
Cotton is easy to use, can be washed in the home, and is ideal for carrying heavy items.
Crepe material, even if it is made of rayon, has to be dry-cleaned or it will shrink.
Artificial fabrics, such as polyester or nylon, are much cheaper than silk, but depending on their design or texture they can be used in both formal and everyday situations.