A reader from Gatika, Biscay, Spain, has proposed an alternative way to handle the Financial Times newspaper that preserves its traditional large, pink pages while addressing concerns about its unwieldiness in public spaces. Cynthia Miyashita suggests adopting the “Tokyo Metro method” of reading the publication, which involves a simple folding technique to create a more manageable format without altering the paper’s original size.

This method starts with flattening the paper’s horizontal fold and then folding it vertically in half, resulting in a width of approximately 17.5 centimeters. The layout allows readers to turn and fold pages as preferred, enabling the bottom half to rest comfortably on the lap or be folded horizontally once more into a compact 17.5 by 29-centimeter digest. Miyashita highlights that this approach maintains the narrow width easily handled in tight environments and avoids inconveniencing nearby passengers or fellow commuters, such as those seated beside a reader on Ryanair flights.

The suggestion comes in response to earlier requests for the Financial Times to consider printing in a smaller, more compact format for convenience, with some readers noting difficulty managing the larger-sized paper, especially in windy outdoor conditions. Miyashita’s recommendation offers a workaround that retains the distinctive format and visual identity of the Financial Times while addressing usability concerns.

By employing this simple folding technique, readers can continue enjoying the traditional presentation and the performative aspect of reading the paper in public without the practical drawbacks of its full size. The folded configuration also reduces the likelihood of the newspaper being displaced by wind, making it suitable for reading on windy beaches or other outdoor settings.