Tenugui Towel Story Vol.52｜Comparing Furoshiki

May 22, 2025

In Japan, furoshiki refers to a square piece of cotton wrapping cloth. Its origins date back to the Nara period, when it was used as a “flat wrapping cloth” to wrap the imperial treasures stored in the Shosoin Repository. Coined during the Muromachi period, the term “furoshiki” became widely used by the general public to wrap bathing supplies and kimonos at public bathhouses during the Edo period. It was also used as a “haya furoshiki” (quick wrapping cloth) in the Edo period where fires were common; people would place them under their futons (traditional Japanese bedding) so that they could quickly reach for it and wrap their household belongings when the need arises.

Today, furoshiki are attracting attention again as a sustainable item that can be reused repeatedly. In addition to the classic “hemp leaves” and “arabesque” patterns, furoshiki is now available in modern designs and vibrant colors as well, allowing users to enjoy them according to their lifestyles in more ways than ever.

The final impression of the wrapping will also vary depending on the texture and size of the furoshiki. In this column, we will introduce and compare recommended fabrics and sizes according to different uses.

Comparing box wrapping

A square box is the most standard shape for furoshiki wrapping. The “otsukai”-wrapping that can be completed with just one knot, requires no special skills and can be used to wrap almost any box. Click here for more on “Ma-Musubi”

50 cm-sized ones recommended for bento (lunch) boxes

The 50 cm square furoshiki is a size that is flexible and easy to use. It can securely wrap most bento boxes from small to large two-tiered ones. It is thin and taut, so it is easy to tie, and when unfolded, you can lay it on the table as a placemat. The vibrant colors will add a bright touch to your daily dining table.

Oishii furoshiki　Approx. 50×50cm　100％ cotton

70 cm-sized ones recommended for sweets boxes

Traditional Japanese sweets and desserts are essential gifts to bring when visiting someone’s place. Wrapping them in a furoshiki makes them look elegant and much more special. A furoshiki that is approximately 70 cm long can be turned into a variety of wrapping arrangements or techniques, such as “hana (flower)”-wrapping or “usagi (rabbit)”-wrapping. A beautifully wrapped gift also elicits a sense of joy in the person opening it. This is a size that is perfect for occasions where you want to add a touch of elegance while still respecting formality.

Furoshiki with design Approx. 72×72cm100％

Furoshiki with design Approx. 72×72cm　100％ cotton

Extremely stable for take-out pizzas!

Take-out pizzas are popular as treats or refreshments, or for cherry blossom viewing. The shape of the pizza makes it difficult to put it into a paper bag or reusable shopping bag, and it’s surprisingly hard to carry a large box while keeping it level! This is where the furoshiki comes in. Wrapping the pizza box in a large cotton furoshiki provides a tight fit that prevents the box from slipping around. It also alleviates any concern of staining since the furoshiki can be washed. It can also be used for round wooden serving trays for sushi.

Medium Fuwari furoshiki　Approx. 100×100cm　100％ cotton

Comparing bottle wrapping

Bottles come in a variety of shapes, from small bottles to long and thin ones. The final result will change depending on the size and material of the furoshiki.

50 cm-sized ones for jam jars

This is a size perfect for jam jars, be it fruit jams that are often picked up as travel souvenirs, or homemade jams meant for sharing with others. “Kobin (small jar)”- wrapping refers to a variety of wrapping arrangements or techniques that allow one to come up with cute wrapping styles.

Small furoshiki with design　Approx. 50×50cm　100％ cotton

70 cm-sized ones for wine bottles

Often brought to parties and celebrations, a bottle of wine can turn into a thoughtful gift by adding a small touch to the wrapping.

Furoshiki　Approx. 72×72cm　100％ cotton

100 cm-sized ones for Japanese sake bottles

A bottle of Japanese sake is routinely brought to celebrate seasonal greetings, store openings, anniversaries, or other celebratory occasions. A large furoshiki with a handle will allow one to carry the heavy bottle easily.

Left 72㎝ Right 105㎝

Comparing furoshiki bags

Furoshiki bags are useful when shopping or traveling. Since they can be folded up neatly like any fabric, they do not take up much space and are very handy. Depending on the texture, size, and how they are tied, the shape of the bag, and thus its use, can be transformed in many ways.

Tying a teardrop-shaped bag is easy-peasy!

With a furoshiki in hand, anyone can easily transform it into a stylish bag just by simply tying it.

Turn the furoshiki over and fold it into a triangle.
Tie both ends securely.
Turn it inside out, tie the top end, and it’s done!

With just these simple steps, one can create a natural teardrop-shaped bag.

In this column, we have compared furoshiki of different fabrics and sizes.

50 cm-size square ones for storing small items

A small bag made from our Oishii furoshiki will come in very handy as a lunch bag to carry rice balls and other items.

Oishii furoshiki　Approx. 50×50cm　100％ cotton

100 cm-size square ones for sling bags

Furoshiki are made of soft and light material and can be used as a sling bag to share some of the burden when one has suddenly too much luggage.

Fuwari furoshiki　Approx. 100×100cm　100％ cotton

Yes, even records!

Vinyl records have recently been making a comeback. Furoshiki is a great way to wrap large, thin vinyl records. The same wrapping technique can be used to transport large books and paintings. It is, however, best to choose a thicker fabric for a peace of mind when transporting heavy items.