Tawashi: we throw in the towel!

No no, this is not an insult, quite the contrary! And to be more precise, it’s not a question of “throwing away” your brand new sponge that is just asking to be used, but rather to do without it in the future. Why ? Because a large part of the sponges sold on the market is of synthetic origin, because these sponges are stuffed with polyurethane (plastic!), And also because we like to recycle, to make new with old, produce less waste and make with our own hands. Find out how to make your sponge ecologically and economically!

# 1 Origins of Tawashi

It comes from Japan, it is a dishcloth made from textiles (usually nylon, wool or knife) made with a crochet weaving technique. Its designer started from the idea that, in all fields, everyone should explore all the possibilities for recycling, reuse and recycling, with the aim of producing as little waste as possible. The Tawashi, which means “washing brush”, was born from an ecological and economic problem. The starting point is the desire to do the dishes without product, using a simple sponge.

# 2 Recover, eco-friendly and zero waste

Machine washable, the Tawashi is hygienic, its lifespan is six times longer than that of a conventional sponge, and is just as effective, see more! As explained above, it came from the sustainable and eco-responsible thinking of a man who wanted to promote recycling and no longer use washing-up liquid. An ecological approach from A to Z! Combined with ecological or homemade household products, it is the zero waste, zero plastic and environmentally friendly ally.

# 3 DIY Tutorial

Plain or colored, large or small, cotton or wool … it’s up to you, make your Tawashi in a few minutes   Choose a piece of used fabric: tapered tights, socks with holes, t-shirt sleeves, etc. Tip: the clothes that allow you to get “rings” are the most practical, but you can also make your Tawashi with an old cloth, a piece of fabric, a thick wool scrap etc. Be crazy! Mix materials and patterns for maximum customization.

Cut 10 strips of fabric about 3cm wide.
Make a weaving loom, for example with a board, 20 nails arranged in a square or by disposing of clothes pins (choose them out of wood if you have to buy them, it's more ecofriendly!) On the four edges of a dish. Give free rein to your creativity: whatever the technique, the most important is the result.
For weaving, start by placing 5 vertical bands, then weave the first horizontal band, passing over underneath. Repeat the manipulation with the remaining strip, starting by passing below, then above. Ditto for the remaining strips, alternate above-below and below-above.
Once your square is fully woven, remove the first loop from the nail, pass the second loop in the first, pass the third loop in the second and so on by going all the way around the work. Tighten enough to leave no space in the weaving.
Leave behind the last loop which will serve as a hook for your Tawashi.
Cut the loop and tie a knot to close the work.

Vary the number of nails (or pins) and strips according to the desired size.

You now know how to make a free, recycled, and eco-friendly sponge in minutes. To reproduce without moderation!

Need help? Watch the Kaizen magazine’s Do it yourself video tutorial.

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This post was published on: 27th March 2020 |
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