From wrapping to gift: Japanese Furoshiki culture captivates the design world

In a world where design has become a means of personal expression and cultural connection, even the smallest gift can tell a story. This is exactly what Efrat Barashi Meppen, a veteran design editor and gift-wrapping artist, discovered. With her new brand, FURO.CHICIT, she offers a unique approach to gifting, particularly through a small but meaningful item: Furoshiki—a traditional Japanese fabric used for gift wrapping.

“I’ve been studying and editing design for years, interviewing dozens of designers and entrepreneurs, but I’ve always felt a special connection to the art of wrapping,” Efrat shares. “When I learned about the Japanese Furoshiki culture, I was amazed to discover how wrapping can be so much more than an outer covering—it transforms the gift into something personal and thoughtful, and of course, eco-friendly.”

The History and Meaning Behind Furoshiki

Furoshiki, which originated in Japan during the 8th century, was initially used to wrap treasures in temples and later evolved to wrap clothes at public baths. Over the years, this fabric has become an integral part of Japanese culture. Traditionally made from silk or cotton (though today any soft fabric can be used), Furoshiki not only protects the gift but also becomes part of the gift itself. In a society that values external presentation as part of the message, Furoshiki conveys thoughtful consideration for the recipient and even a form of gratitude.

“In these challenging times we’ve been enduring for almost a year, I believe wrapping each other in layers of protection is essential. If it also creates an opportunity for giving, then we’ve gained twice over. This is just one more thing we can embrace from Japanese culture,” Efrat notes.

From Design to Wrapping - A Culture Captivating the West

FURO.CHICIT’s kit is the perfect combination of contemporary design and traditional roots. It includes a variety of unique wrapping papers, ribbons, threads, paper flowers, and Furoshiki, which can also be transformed into a stylish gift basket. “I wanted to take the traditional Furoshiki and modernize it to suit local design enthusiasts,” Efrat explains. “The kit isn’t just a way to wrap gifts; it’s a tool that allows my customers to express their creativity. Every woman who uses the kit is, in my view, a FURO.CHICIT—a name derived from the blend of three words: Furoshiki, chic, and it.”

From Design Editor to Wrapping Artist - The Personal Journey of FURO.CHICIT

Efrat, who was a design editor at Walla for years, took her love for wrapping a step further and turned it into a business. “It really took off in the early days of the war. I started wrapping boxes I had at home, trying to find some mental refuge from the chaos that overtook us. I posted videos on my Instagram account, showing how I wrap. The feedback I received from both longtime and new followers was unanimous: Keep going—more and more—because it provides a moment of calm and peace for everyone. I’ve always loved and been drawn to the small details, the ones that make an experience complete. Gift wrapping is exactly that kind of detail. Today, when I design my kits and choose which decorative items to include in each set, I feel that I’ve managed to incorporate many of the things I’ve learned about design and aesthetics into the brand, which brings something deeper and more meaningful.”

A Japanese Twist on Holiday Gifting

The kit offers every buyer a beautiful and original way to wrap the gifts they give, turning them into a true work of art—without compromising on sustainability, design, or a personal touch. It can serve as a gift in its own right or as a set for dedicated wrappers who see the holidays as just another excuse to wrap gifts.

FURO.CHICIT gift-wrapping kit at a special holiday price: 250 shekels, available for direct order from the website.Want to see how it works? Follow FURO.CHICIT's Instagram account and join the global trend of meaningful wrapping.