The Furoshiki Handbook: Everyday Knots and Wrapping Techniques (Japanese-English Bilingual Edition)

Release Date: February 12, 2015
Language: English/Japanese
Length: 112 pages

The *furoshiki*—a traditional Japanese wrapping cloth—embodies the spirit of *mottainai* (avoiding waste). It has also become a popular souvenir among international visitors to Japan. While we often associate *furoshiki* with concepts like "Japanese tradition" or "the olden days," it is, in fact, a versatile item that can be used both conveniently and beautifully in modern, everyday life.

This book introduces various ways to use *furoshiki*—from creating bags to making covers—so you can put them to great use in your daily routine. By mastering two basic knots—the "square knot" (*ma-musubi*) and the "single knot" (*hitotsu-musubi*)—you will be able to use *furoshiki* in any way you like. The book features numerous wrapping techniques for bags, covers, gift wrapping, and many other everyday scenarios. Each method includes a step-by-step guide, allowing you to start incorporating *furoshiki* into your life right away.

The book is filled with beautiful photographs of *furoshiki* in a wide variety of designs—ranging from classic, traditional patterns to modern styles that complement contemporary clothing. It is a delightful book, even just to look through.

Every step includes an English translation, making it an ideal souvenir. The "Japanese-English Bilingual Books" series offers a unique, compact, and accessible way for readers around the world to explore various facets of Japanese culture.

This second volume, *The Furoshiki Handbook*, introduces the art of *furoshiki*—the traditional Japanese practice of wrapping items in a single piece of cloth. You will learn how to wrap everyday objects, create bags, and wrap gifts, among many other applications.

■ Table of Contents
Introduction / The Charm of *Furoshiki*: Transforming a Single Piece of Cloth / The Origins and History of *Furoshiki* / How to Use This Book / *Furoshiki* Sizes / Learning the "True Knot" (*ma-musubi*) / Untying the "True Knot" / Learning the "Single Knot" (*hito-musubi*)

CHAPTER 1: Basic Wrapping Techniques (Medium-Sized *Furoshiki*)
Concealed Wrapping / Four-Corner Knot / Wrapping a Single Bottle / Wrapping Two Bottles / Flower-Style Wrapping

CHAPTER 2: Practical Applications (Large-Sized *Furoshiki*)
Simple Bag / Teardrop Bag / Outing Bag / Tote Bag / Drawstring Bag / Covering Wrap / Basket Wrap / Double-Knot Wrap

CHAPTER 3: Unique Uses (Small-Sized *Furoshiki*)
Bento Box Wrap / Tissue Box Cover / Book Cover / Gift Wrapping for Books / Waist Pouch / Candy-Style Bag / Dog Scarf