The Rise of Furoshiki/ Fabric Gift Wrapping in NZ

Christmas is just around the corner, and a small group of woman-owned, NZ businesses are encouraging people to make the switch. Use fabric wrapping for your gifts instead of the same old paper wrap (much of which can’t be or won’t be recycled).

Furoshiki : traditional Japanese wrapping cloths traditionally used to wrap and/or to transport goods

With people across the globe trying to lessen their environmental impact on the world, a global trend is emerging. The adoption of traditional Japanese gift wrapping into our Christmas, and everyday lives. For not only does it wrap your gifts at Christmas, birthdays and any other special event; Furoshiki fabric wrapping sheets are an excellent tool for home decor, using as a shopping bag, carrying things and even in an emergency as a first aid item!

For something so simple, the multitude of uses brought forth by Furoshiki, the simplicity, the inclusivity, the beauty, are not being missed in NZ. Three of NZ’s emerging Furoshiki business are joining together to promote the practice. We are all proud of our values and our products are unique from one another.

Knot Again NZ - 100% Organic Cotton Furoshiki. The creator Helen chooses reversible patterns and lovely colours made from quality 100% certified organic cotton which is a very sustainable and durable material. www.knotagain.nz

Hena Hena – The creator Nana makes traditional Japanese dresses from vintage Kimono fabrics. She also hand-selects Furoshiki. www.henahena.nz/

FabWrap - 100% Upcycled Furoshiki by Ayumi. She uses upcycled materials in Furoshiki fabric wrapping as an environmentally focused fabric. There is no waste in the environment, they are sustainable, reusable, and unique Furoshiki. www.fabwrap.co.nz/

What’s exciting about these three woman-run businesses is there is no gatekeeping. Three unique and separate businesses with a common goal – education and reduction of wrapping waste. Furoshiki offers an alternative to environmental issues and gives us an opportunity to create environmentally friendly habits! No more paper wrapping!!!!

What’s even more exciting, is the inclusivity of Furoshiki. People with dexterity issues, children, and the elderly, can easily wrap and unwrap knotted furoshiki.

Much love and support this Christmas 2022, Helen, Nana & Ayumi