Forgo the roll and make your own gift wrap

When wrapping gifts with found items, ribbon is the finishing touch.Photo credit: Kaylyn Hinz.

‘Tis the season to gift-wrap with paper bags, jars, newspaper and fabric.

Wrapping paper is not what is used to be. The paper would keep rolling, but now it shortly stops after wrapping one box.

There are several different substitutes for wrapping paper that are unique. Pinterest is filled with ideas, which is a good starting point, but take a look around your home and you will be very surprised as to what is available.

Paper bags can be surprisingly amazing for gift wrap. Instead of getting the plastic bags the next time you go grocery shopping, ask for the paper ones. They are simple and easy to wrap items in. Plus, there is plenty of space on the paper to write whatever you want to the gift’s recipient: a favorite quote or a nice design. Anything can go.

Large mason jars are perfect to put presents in. You can fit a scarf, shirt or any big accessory in them. Instead of having a boring box to put gifts in, obscuring any view of what’s inside, jars give it a little twist. Once the present is put into the jar, all you need is a bow for the final touch.

Wrapping presents in newspaper adds something special to a gift. Instead of Christmas-printed paper, words substitute. The issue of The Signal you read this week can be used again as a nice wrapping paper!

Fabric is great, but it’s a little harder to wrap items in because it is so thick. There is a solution: If you have a box or gift that is difficult to wrap with wrapping paper, fabric can be used. It is advised to not get the thickest of material.

Once you get your present in place, take the fabric and a ribbon and tie it up. Sometimes sentimental things can go great with this idea. For example, use a handkerchief that has been passed down from generation to generation. I often use these when I am wrapping up a jewelry box, this way you get two gifts in one. Like with every other wrapping option, ribbon is the finishing touch.

Wrapping presents is already a tedious task, but quality is everything. When a person sees how much effort you put into the presentation, your gift will be unforgettable.

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When wrapping gifts with found items, ribbon is the finishing touch.Photo credit: Kaylyn Hinz.