The Wrapping Scarf Revolution

We were a few days too early to see any real cherry blossom action but what a night we had in DC last week. So many wonderful people came out to the Korus House of the Korean Embassy to hear my little Bojagi to BOBO presentation. Even the overflow room was full to capacity and it ended up being standing room only.

It was one of those lucky nights when things just seemed to click. DC/MD/VA traffic can be murderous but it was smooth sailing all the way from the highways to the triangular mazes that lead to Embassy Row. The audience was also amazing and we were so on the same green colored wavelength. Heavenly!

Main Presentation room at the Korus House of the Korean Embassy in Washington DC

Speaking to a room full of DC intellectuals was daunting but the guests were very warm and engaged in the topic of the night. A 25 minute presentation with slides was followed by a demonstration time.

Then we had a very lively Q & A with many great questions and comments by the audience. Wish we had more time to hear from everyone. Here’s a sampling of what was asked:

Q: What is the Korean etiquette with using a bojagi (wrapping scarf)? Is it rude to take the wrap back when giving a gift?

A: There are many correct ways to use a bojagi. Many people choose to give the bojagi to someone as part of a gift. Others use the wrap as a personal accessory much like a bag and use it to transport a gift of wine or food. They unwrap the gift, hand it to the recipient and put their wrapping scarf away.

Q: What are the best fabrics to use as a wrapping scarf? I have  a lot of cotton fabrics at home and would like to try the techniques.

A: The beauty of wrapping scarves is that you can use so many different fabrics and materials depending on what you may have available. My book, The Wrapping Scarf Revolution, goes into more detail as to what fabrics and sizes to use for specific projects but one easy test to see if your fabric will work is to hold a corner of the fabric and tie a knot. If you can’t tie a knot easily, the material is probably too thick.

Some of our lucky raffle winners.

We gave 7 lucky winners a BOBO wrapped and signed copy of The Wrapping Scarf Revolution.

I loved seeing my friend and eco-warrior Reena Kazmann. Thanks for coming Reena!

Reena Kazmann of ecoartware.com

A mini exhibit of BOBO lovelies.

Before and after the presentation, everyone had a chance to check out the small exhibition of BOBO wrapped goodies. Here’s some of the great feedback we got from the guests:

“Intelligent, poignant, impressive!” -Soojung K.

“Excellent: very informative and comprehensive also greatly appreciated the historical research.” -Peggie D.

“Excellent presentation. Clear and concise, your vision is ecologically appropriate.” -Beth C.

“Absolutely wonderful! I know what I’ll be playing with next week!” -Peg H.

“Well presented, well organized. Enjoyed every moment and learned a lot.” -Regina C.

Many thanks to the Korean Embassy and to all the people who came out for a fun and memorable evening. Cheers!