Do you feel as I do, that how a gift is wrapped is as meaningful as what’s inside? When I receive a gift that’s wrapped with care, style and originality, it makes me smile. The giver took the time for presentation – and that’s uncommonly thoughtful in today’s “get it done” world.
I’ve pulled together a few suggestions to add the “wow factor” to your gift wrapping this holiday season. They’re easy, inexpensive and many involve recycling/reusing – and yes, may even be fun!
A Little Bit Country. A rustic theme is beautiful (and so affordable)! Simple brown wrap is timeless, especially when paired with yarn, twine or string. Enhance the theme further with real greenery, pine cones, winter berries or twigs. Perfect!
Don’t Discard the Cards! Last year’s holiday cards can become this year’s gift tags! Sometimes all it takes is a hole punch and some ribbon or string. Try using pinking shears to cut out a particular graphic. Or be even more creative by cutting out the recipient’s initial. Use the back of the tag for your personal message.
Magical Mittens. This is so easy! Cut out a mitten shape from construction paper and decorate it. Add ribbon, lace, glue on buttons – and use it as a gift tag. So bright and pretty!
Monogram it. Cut out simple shapes like a Christmas tree, stocking or ornament bulb from felt. Then cut out and glue on the recipient’s initial in a contrasting colour. What a personal touch to a gift! Another “initial” idea is to use a basic tag in white or brown (at office stores) and stencil on the recipient’s initial in bright red or green.
Button Up. Buttons are beautiful and when you buy in bulk, they are inexpensive too! Glue buttons to the ribbon on your package, or use a big bright button in place of a bow. Or even make a gift tag by grouping together tiny buttons on cardboard or bristle board to make a wreath shape.
Win, Lose or Draw. This is a winner on so many levels! Give your children big sheets of paper and ask them to draw or paint colourful holiday pictures. The finished artwork is your wrapping paper. Cheap, fun for the kids and looks so cute! Add ribbons, stars or whatever else suits the look!
Make it Personal. There are lots of ways to customize that are simply and inexpensive! Add sheet music to your gift wrapping for the music lover, a copy of a page from a favourite book, a special poem or favourite holiday flower… so many options! Keep the background wrap plain.
Sparkle and Shine. Start with plain wrap, such as kraft paper, and add some sparkle by including a shiny tree ornament or jingle bells to your gift. Try using sequins mixed with yarn or raffia for your ribbon.
Bright Idea. Traditional tree light bulbs can make a beautiful gift decoration. Arrange in the shape of a star as a centrepiece on your gift – glue to a beautiful ribbon.
This year, think outside the box and have fun.
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