Why leave a pile of torn wrapping paper on the floor at the end of a holiday get-together? The following ideas save money and trees while still being practical.
Towels
Choose a color your recipient likes and wrap your gift in a bath towel. Use a corresponding washcloth as a bow for the top. For a special touch, embroider your recipient's initials on the edge to personalize your wrap even more.
Newspaper
Use sections of newspaper that correspond to the gift or personality of the recipient. For example, if giving a gift to an accountant, use the financial section or stock listings. Wrap home-related items in the lifestyle or decorating section. Use comics for the young at heart.
Boxes
Reuse moving or package boxes as gift wrap. If gifts were ordered online, use the same box rather than throwing it in the trash. Grab some markers and crayons to decorate boxes for a fun touch.
Old Vases
Everyone seems to have an old vase or two that no longer gets any use. Rather than throw it out, use them to place smaller gifts such as jewelry, ties, or even certificates. Put a piece of tissue paper or newspaper inside to hide the gifts from immediate view.
Lunch Bags
If you have a few brown lunch bags around, use them in place of gift bags. Spruce them up with stickers or stamps. Or, for an even more personal touch, print off favorite photos on regular paper and paste them to the outside of the bag.
Tins
Got a few of those holiday tins from the previous year? They probably came with baked goods inside, but rather than fire up the oven, use tins to make a lovely package covering. Place smaller gifts like CDs or movies inside.
Cloth Napkins and Tablecloths
Reuse napkins and tablecloths by wrapping a box of candy or bottle of wine. Use a festive holiday pattern for an extra special touch. Tie the ends of fabric with a simple knot to complete the offering.
Scrapbooking Paper
Use odd papers and supplies from a scrapbooking hobby that won't fit with other craft projects as a way to provide colorful wrapping for gifts. Make the wrap extra special by including brochures, photos, or journaling as you would a scrapbook page.
Sweatshirts or T-Shirts
If you're giving your recipient a piece of clothing among other presents, use a sweatshirt or tee as wrapping for the other gift. Or, find a clothing item that has special significance for your recipient. If you've got a sports fan to buy for, wrap their gift in an old jersey. Pop culture buffs might like a tee with graphic details from music or television.
Why waste precious dollars on wrapping that gets immediately discarded? Thoughtful gifts are what really provide an impression. Taking a creative approach to wrapping will impress your friends and family and make a positive impact on the environment.
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