Enterprising Ripon Grammar students concerned about the amount of wrapping we waste every Christmas have put their principles into action.
The budding young sixth form entrepreneurs have launched a creative new business producing reusable fabric wrapping.
Inspired by the traditional Japanese art of furoshiki – a practice that uses cloth to wrap and transport goods – they have been transforming old fabric into stylish reusable gift wraps.
Project leader Sarah Jayan, who heads up the school’s Young Enterprise team, pointed out that Britain bins the equivalent of 108 million rolls of wrapping paper each year, or about four rolls per household.
She said:
“Wrap which is decorated with glitter or made of foil can’t go in the recycling bin. The wrapping industry creates so much paper waste. Not only is it costly, but all that rubbish is so bad for the planet."
She explained how she and her team, called Under Wraps, came up with the idea:
“We wanted to create the same joy of unwrapping while being sustainable and eco-friendly.
“So, we decided to turn repurposed fabric into Intricate reusable wrapping paper, taking inspiration from the Japanese style of furoshiki wrapping.
“We want to create something beautiful that people would want to use again and again, without throwing it away after one use.”
Each piece of wrapping is hand crafted from upcycled textiles sourced from charity shops and donations. The students carefully clean, cut and decorate the fabrics, blending traditional Japanese patterns with contemporary designs.
The result is a vibrant range of wraps that can be tied and re-tied around gifts of all shapes and sizes – just like authentic furoshiki cloths.
Sarah added:
“With Christmas approaching, we hope our reusable wrapping and crackers will become a popular alternative to traditional disposable options – and a reminder that old fabric can have a beautiful second life.
“There is a real lack of products like this in the market - and it’s something that’s really needed.”
The project has not only inspired greener habits in the student community but also provided the team with hands-on business experience – from product design and marketing to sales and customer engagement,
Young Enterprise coordinator Bob Walker said:
“This venture is an excellent example of creativity meeting conscience. They are not only building a business but inspiring meaningful change.”
The team has held several fundraisers, including a movie night and an eco-product sale, to raise the money they need to launch their business and have invested £80 so far.
Sarah said:
“We’d be very grateful if people are willing to donate fabric to give it a new life."
Wraps cost £4 each, with designs catering for different seasons and events and the team also offers a personal wrapping service for an additional charge.
Marie Curie appeals for Harrogate volunteers this summer
Boroughbridge clinic celebrates hat-trick of industry awards
New day service for people with complex needs opens at Rossett School
Call for review after Allerton Waste Recovery Park misses targets for seventh consecutive year
Harrogate MP welcomes £2 bus fare cap but calls for further reforms
Yorkshire's biggest ever pug meet to be held at Harewood House
Bin fires prompt call for public to dispose of batteries responsibly
Knaresborough Mayor to open town's first padel venue
New award launched to find Yorkshire's best pub
Vale of York services given go-ahead despite "rape of countryside" claim
Traffic to use new A59 Kex Gill route for first time tomorrow
Annual Tour de Aky set to hit £10,000 target
Harrogate bus staff nominated for national award
Parking warning issued after Burnsall car park closes
Spire Harrogate Clinic earns top housekeeping award
Otley music studio launches six-week daytime courses
New guide helps families find free and low-cost summer fun
Much-loved Slingsby Gin becomes new Festivals' partner
Princess Royal to become Great Yorkshire Show President
Concern over lack of consultation ahead of Lifeline cuts decision
