History of Pojagi

past

Pojagi is an ancient Korean textile art form that is both beautiful and utilitarian.

A pojagi (po) is a cloth that is used to wrap, carry, store or cover things. Traditionally, they are square. In antique collections, the smallest measure about 35 cm (about 14 inches), but they go up to ten times that size.

The use of wrapping cloths was first recorded almost 2,000 years ago. Thery were used by everyone in Korean society – from aristocrats to peasants.

There were different types, and different words were used to describe the type of pojagi and the person that used it. Learn more HERE.

pojagi or bojagi?

Sometimes you will see the word “bojagi”. What is the difference? They are the same thing, but when Korean is translated into English, there is little differentiation between the “b” and “p” sounds. The words can be used interchangeably.

Traditionally, the different pojagi techniques were sewn by hand out of silk, ramie and hemp. You can try it for yourself with these tutorials.

present

The techniques used to make pojagi have gone beyond wrapping cloths and are now used to make many other decorative items.

Of course, makers also want to use sewing machines as well. These modern techniques are not the same as quilting patchwork, but use similar materials.

future

You can make beautiful pojagi for yourself. Use your own fabrics, colours and ideas for a unique piece of decorative art.

There are many tutorials and project ideas on this site to get you started.

Learn More

Here is a collection of pojagi resources. See artists, books, videos and more to continue studying this fascinating subject.