Whether you're in need of a handy tote, a small evening bag, or a pouch for personal items, furoshiki has you covered. Tesage Bukuro translates to "handbag" or "handheld bag" and offers a range of creative and sustainable bag styles using just a furoshiki cloth. In this guide, we’ll dive into four unique variations of Tesage Bukuro, from a casual handle bag to a drawstring pouch and even a tablet carrier.

What is Tesage Bukuro?

Tesage Bukuro means a handheld bag in Japanese, a classic and adaptable furoshiki folding style that creates different types of bags from a simple square of fabric. Tesage Bukuro styles are ideal for carrying small to medium-sized items, making it a versatile and eco-friendly bag option. These four Tesage Bukuro variations show how easy it is to turn a furoshiki into an elegant, functional bag!

Method 1: Basic Tesage Bukuro with Mameshibori Print

This Basic Tesage Bukuro technique is simple yet effective, providing a small bag with two convenient handles. Great for light carrying, this method works well with a sturdy furoshiki fabric, like the Mameshibori print from our Wagara Collection.

Instructions:

1. Lay your furoshiki with the printed side facing down.
2. Make the First Handle: Take two corners on the same side and tie a double-knot. Ensure there’s enough space to slide your hand through comfortably.
3. Repeat for the Other Handle: Tie a double-knot on the opposite side for the second handle.
4. Ready to Go: You now have a functional, cute Tesage Bukuro perfect for small essentials!

Method 2: Tesage Bukuro with a Hidden Knot (Katakake Fukuro Style)

Inspired by the Katakake Fukuro (肩掛け袋) shoulder bag style, this method creates a Tesage Bukuro with a unique look featuring two hidden knots. While traditional Katakake is for shoulder carry, a smaller furoshiki makes a handheld version that’s perfect for a quick, stylish bag.

Instructions:

1. Turn the Furoshiki Inside Out: Place it printed side down on a flat surface.
2. Fold Diagonally: Fold the furoshiki into a triangle.
3. Tie Hidden Knots: Make single knots on two corners, then turn the fabric over.
4. Double-Knot the Remaining Corners: Take the two unknotted corners and make a double-knot for your handle.
5. Finished Product: You have a unique Tesage Bukuro, compact and secure for everyday use.

Method 3: Kinchaku Drawstring Bag (Tesage Bukuro Variation)

The Kinchaku-style Tesage Bukuro creates a drawstring bag that’s perfect for a small evening pouch or cosmetic bag. With a simple pull, you can open and close this little bag with ease, making it practical and charming. For this method, we’re using the Narcissus print from our Garden Collection.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Furoshiki: Place it printed side down on a flat surface.
2. Make the First Handle Knot: Take two corners on one side and tie them together, but only single-knot them initially.
3. Create a Drawstring Handle: Double-knot the corners, leaving enough space to act as a handle.
4. Repeat on the Opposite Side: Do the same for the two remaining corners to complete your drawstring.
5. Adjust to Open and Close: Pull the handles to open or close the bag, turning it into a lovely, small Kinchaku-style pouch.

Method 4: Tesage Bukuro for Tablet/Book Carrier with Infinite Shippo Print

For carrying tablets or books, this Tesage Bukuro variation offers a sleek solution with a simple bow at the front, making it easy to transport your items while showcasing a decorative element. The Infinite Shippo print is a great choice for this style, lending an elegant touch.

Instructions:

1. Set Up the Furoshiki: Lay it printed side down, positioning it so a corner faces you.
2. Position Your Item: Place your tablet or book diagonally in the center of the furoshiki.
3. Wrap the Closest Corner: Bring the corner nearest you over the item so that the two opposite corners meet.
4. Form a Bow Handle: Take the remaining two corners and tie a bow at the top of your item for a decorative touch.
5. Double-Knot for Security: Ensure the bow is secure, and you have a portable Tesage Bukuro that’s stylish and functional.

Method 5: Odekake Twisted Handle Tesage Bukuro

This Twisted Handle Odekake Tesage Bukuro method adds a chic twist to your bag’s handles, creating a secure grip and a stylish look. Great for carrying a few essentials or for use as a decorative gift bag, this style is both functional and fashionable.

Instructions:

1. Lay Out Your Furoshiki: Start with a square furoshiki, pattern side up, on a flat surface.
2. Fold Into a Triangle: Bring two opposite corners together to fold the furoshiki in half, forming a triangle shape.
3. Create the Base Knot: Take the two corners of the triangle and tie a knot, leaving a small opening at the top. This forms the base of your bag.
4. Flip the Furoshiki: Turn the furoshiki over, so the pattern is now facing up again.
5. Form the Handles: Take the two remaining corners and tie them together in a knot to create the handles.
6. Twist and Secure the Handles: Twist the handle fabric, and secure the ends with a double-knot at the top for a stable grip.

Why This Style Works

The Twisted Handle Odekake Tesage Bukuro adds a modern touch to the traditional Tesage Bukuro design. The twisted handle makes it easy to carry, and the secure base ensures your items stay put. This style is great for a quick carry bag or an elegant wrapping for gifts.

Why Choose Tesage Bukuro for Furoshiki Bag Wrapping?

Tesage Bukuro styles bring a mix of tradition, practicality, and sustainability to the art of carrying essentials. With reusable, eco-friendly furoshiki, these techniques are perfect for reducing waste while creating beautiful, handmade bags. Here are some reasons Tesage Bukuro is the ideal bag solution:

• Eco-Conscious: Reusable and sustainable, reducing the need for disposable bags.
• Versatile Styles: From drawstring bags to book carriers, there’s a Tesage Bukuro style for every need.
• Artistic Prints: Furoshiki prints add an aesthetic layer, making each Tesage Bukuro unique and fashionable.

Tips for Perfecting Your Tesage Bukuro Bag

1. Use a High-Quality Furoshiki: Opt for a sturdy, medium-sized furoshiki to ensure the bag holds its shape and secures your items.
2. Adjust Knots and Bows: Keep your knots and bows snug and symmetrical to create a balanced look.
3. Explore Different Prints: Choose prints that match the occasion or recipient’s taste for an extra personal touch.

Tesage Bukuro offers a world of possibilities for transforming furoshiki into stylish, functional bags. With these four variations, you can create a Tesage Bukuro for any occasion, from everyday errands to elegant evening outings. Embrace the art of furoshiki bag wrapping and bring a touch of Japanese tradition to your style.