How to Wrap Five Eggs

Saturday, August 2, 10am-2:30pm with lunch break

Presented by Brendan Gaffney

In this one-day workshop, students will learn two examples of pre-industrial Japanese packaging and ornament, tamagotsuto (卵つと） and shimekazari (しめ飾り). Tamagotsuto, made famous by the classic book on Japanese packaging “How to Wrap Five Eggs,” is a deceptively simple process of wrapping eggs for transport and sale, using only natural plant fibers. Shimekazari is the practice of weaving straw rope and wreaths, often practiced around shrines and gates in Japan around the New Year.

Using traditional techniques, we will use locally harvested fibers and ornamental grasses to make these two beautiful products, and along the way will learn about harvesting and using local materials, Japanese traditions around New Years, Shinto shrines and pre-industrial packaging. All levels and abilities will have no issues learning this practice, and accomplished or enthusiastic weavers and craftspeople will find a high ceiling of technique and detail, if they aspire to it!

Tool list:


$80, materials included.

Reserve your place before the date.


Brendan Bernhardt Gaffney is a furnituremaker, design, writer and educator based in Otego, New York. burn-heart.com

hello@luckdragon.space
(607) 746-2003
updated 07/12/25