Furoshiki Fabric Wraps: Simple, Reusable, Beautiful

The Japanese art of furoshiki%E2%80%94the use of elegantly folded fabric as packaging%E2%80%94takes the spotlight in this slim volume by the Pixeladies. They tie the tradition to many cultures but make it particularly appropriate to today's environmental ethic, suggesting that "By making and reusing furoshiki instead of plastic bags and paper, you can help reduce waste." The photo on the book's cover, an elegant double knotted wrapping, makes the case that the practice is stunning as well as environmentally sound. Twenty different ways of wrapping are clearly diagrammed and explained, all far easier than origami, the complex Japanese art of paper-folding. The Two-Bottle Wrap stands out as the perfect solution for how to deliver a bottle or two of wine to a dinner party while the Pillow Sham gives readers a way to revitalize their living rooms. Information on types of fabric and finishing furoshiki is included as well, and twenty-four project cards round out a lovely package. This is the rare "new" craft that seems immediately worth pursuing. Color photos & diagrams. (Feb.)