Instead of using shop bought wrapping paper this Christmas, why not recycle, upcycle or make your own? Check out our gift wrapping and embellishment suggestions below.
Eco Wrap
Vintage newspapers, old comics (not rare ones!) and pages from magazines can make great wrapping for presents, and won’t break the bank. Co-ordinating ribbons can be picked up for pennies and will set off the look. Upcycled Christmas cards from last year make great tags too – simply cut out the shape you want from the design on the card, punch a hole in the top and thread through with ribbon or string.
Homemade
Why not buy a roll of blank wallpaper lining or brown packaging paper and go to town with it? Children will enjoy potato printing festive shapes such as stars or Christmas trees onto the paper, or you could invest in some rubber stamps and ink and print all over the paper for a unique look.
Embellishments
Shop bought bows and ribbons are pretty and easy to get hold of, but consider using string for a shabby chic feel or even stripy butcher’s twine for a rustic look. Think about embellishing your gifts with beads, synthetic flowers or even buttons. Washi tape – a type of Japanese masking tape – is all the rage in the crafting world this season. It can be picked up cheaply from craft outlets, online and many shops on the high street. There are plenty of designs and lots of ideas for its use, but washi tape looks great wound around a gift as a funky alternative to ribbon.
After you’ve finished wrapping your gifts, you’ll probably be left with lots of off-cuts. Here are a few simple ideas on how to use it up:
- Line a drinks tray
- Create a bunting party banner
- Wrap it around old tin cans for a homemade, snazzy pen holder
Happy Wrapping!