Let’s face it ~ wrapping paper is wasteful. In an effort to be more environmentally conscious, many people are attempting fabric wrapping ~ a Japanese technique called Furoshiki.
Luckily, you don’t have to buy those fabric wrapping kits (although they’re super swanky and really pretty) ~ the lovely folks at Simply Spray have provided DIY instructions for turning old bed sheets or other “scrap” fabrics into gift wrap with their Soft Fabric Paint.
Before we get started on the instructions, here’s a brief rundown of what Simply Spray Soft Fabric Paint is all about:
- Non-toxic
- Non-flammable
- Virtually odorless
- Nitrogen propelled
- Completely eco-friendly
- Leaves fabric soft to the touch
- Permanent – will not rub off
- Comes in 19 colors ~ $4.99 per can
How to make it ~
Note: You’ll need to prepare a large work area, especially if you’re doing a sheet. I’d recommend laying down cardboard or newspaper outside for your workspace. Choose 2 or 3 colors of Soft Fabric Paint for this project and have nice, sharp scissors or shears on hand to cut the fabric when it’s done.
Step 1: Lay a white or ivory flat bed sheet on ground. Pinch the center and twist wrist clockwise to form a small circle.
Step 2: Using the same twisting motion as in step one, surround the large middle twist with a bunch of small twists.
Step 3: To minimize splatter, in one motion start the spray off the edge of the sheet then move the spray onto the sheet. Cover large middle twist with first color.
Step 4: Using the same spray motion, spray the around the first large twist with a different color to create a bulls-eye effect.
Step 5: Repeat steps three and four on all of the surrounding smaller twists.
Step 6: Spread sheet out and lightly mist the remaining white or ivory areas using the same colors.
Step 7: Allow to dry for approx. 30 minutes.
Step 8: Experiment with gathering the sheet in any pattern or direction you want.
Step 9: Once completely dry, cut the large sheet into four equal parts.
Step 10: Wrap gifts (i.e. books, bottles of wine, etc.) using the ancient Furoshiki Japanese wrapping techniques ~ you can find instructional videos on YouTube.
Happy holidays!
Photos & instructions courtesy Simply Spray
