Earlier today, I read “Reusing is higher on the ‘green’ food chain than recycling, because getting another use out of an object is always more effective than spending the energy to recycle it.  Plus, trying to reuse can force us to be creative!”  This is obvious, but it always hammers it home to reread it.  How appropriate with that background that our first guest blogger is Mandy Behrens of Persimmon and Pine.

We knew when we launched Abe’s Market that some sellers would create their seller page, post some products and sit back.  We also knew that some sellers would really embrace what we’re trying to do, be actively engaged and have fun with us.  Mandy is definitely in the latter camp.  As such, I’m not surprised that Mandy jumped on the idea of writing a guest blog post.  Thank you, Mandy!

Abe’s Market Sellers: If you want to write a guest post, just let us know.  We’d love to hear from you.

Now, here’s Mandy:

Give the eco-gift of furoshiki this holiday season with savvywrap™

by Mandy Behrens, Founder – Persimmon & Pine Design

According to the Clean Air Council, an additional five million tons of waste is generated during the holidays in the United States, four million tons of which is wrapping paper and shopping bags. As a mother of two young daughters, I am very concerned with this news and am hoping you will consider using the centuries-old Japanese tradition of furoshiki to wrap your gifts this year – it’s easy, elegant and eco-friendly!

History of the Furoshiki

For centuries, Japanese citizens have used square pieces of cloth called “furoshikis” for a myriad of practical and ornamental applications – nearly everything from transporting goods to decorating gifts. Historians believe furoshikis gained popularity during the Edo Period (1603-1868) when public bath houses became fashionable. Japanese citizens would carry their clothes and personal belongings inside a wrapped furoshiki and then use it as a bath mat. This is how the furoshiki got its name: “furo” meaning “bath” and “shiki” meaning “to spread”. The furoshiki played an important role in the development of Japan’s sustainable society during Edo times and emerged as a highly celebrated custom for wrapping gifts.

Furoshiki Artistry

When I first discovered the art of furoshiki, I was awestruck by its elegance and how, when effortlessly tied and knotted, any furoshiki can transform a great gift into an exceptional keepsake. I learned that in Japan much about the gift-giving experience centers on the presentation. Great care and joy go into selecting just the right furoshiki fabric and the best wrap technique to honor each gift-giving occasion. With so many colors, patterns, and fabric choices available, furoshikis afford gift-givers the ability to add a personal touch. I believe my artisan furoshikis (savvywrap) offer a fresh, nature-inspired choice.

Organic & Sustainable Textiles for savvywrap™ – A Natural Choice

I lovingly handcraft each savvywrap sustainable gift wrap + carry-all furoshiki with eco-embellishments and renewable and biodegradable textiles. Despite the higher price tag, I use hemp, soy, organic cotton and organic linen into my designs because they are farmed, harvested and manufactured using eco-sensitive methods and fair trade practices. This is such a stark contrast to conventional textile production. According to Earth Pledge, a non-profit organization committed to promoting and supporting sustainable development, “At least 8,000 chemicals are used to turn raw materials into textiles and 25% of the world’s pesticides are used to grow non-organic cotton.” Clearly these fabrics are not for my designs.

Give the Eco-Gift of Furoshiki this Holiday Season

Whether you brave the crowds or cozy up to your computer for your shopping this holiday season, I encourage you to choose an eco-friendly gift wrap option like furoshiki to green your gift-giving. My savvywraps are 100% biodegradable and can be easily tied to create a stunning package begging to be untied! Encourage gift recipients to “wrap it forward™ as an eco-bonus.

Cheers and Happy Holidays, Mandy