Decorating & Design
6 Holiday Gift Wrapping Ideas You Can Make Yourself
Author: Harleen Sidhu
Updated on November 17, 2023
Impress your friends and family with personalized gift wrap! Not only is gift wrapping the first thing your recipient sees when you hand them their present, but it’s also what they’ll be staring at under the tree leading up to Christmas day. Rather than reaching for the same-old store-bought designs, we’re serving up six festive holiday wrapping ideas you can easily do yourself.
Scroll down and get inspired to craft your own holiday gift wrap!
Origami Wrapping Paper Bows
It’s time to say goodbye to the mountain of scraps in your recycling bin. Leftover wrapping paper in all shapes, sizes and patterns delights when crafted into holiday ribbons and bows. These bows are made using kirigami, an origami technique that involves cutting and folding paper. The graphic creations pop against natural kraft paper and can be easily affixed with tape or glue.
Gingerbread House Paper Bags
Reminiscent of a gingerbread house, this project skips wrapping altogether. Everyday paper lunch bags are transformed into charmingly sweet “homes” with the help of white paint marker. Line the bags with wax paper and fill to the brim with a signature holiday cookie or other treat.
Paper Bags Sealed With A Bow
To close the paper bags shown in the previous slide, punch two holes at the top of the bag, fold and secure with a ribbon. This is a great way to use up small bits of leftover ribbon that you may have.
Greeting Card Adornments
These gifts are adorned with recycled greeting cards. To achieve the look, cut old holiday cards in half, keeping only the side with the festive design. Create two slits on either end of the card, insert a ribbon and wrap it around the present.
Paper With Painted Bows
This pretty wrap calls for minimal supplies. Paint on dainty bows for a twist on ribbon that feels effortless, elegant and elevated.
Gift Wrap Ornaments
For a rustic vibe, consider festooning presents with fresh greenery that captures the mood of the season. Step outside to forage fallen birchbark and branches — or preserve Christmas tree cuttings — to delicately detail your gifts. Cuttings can be fashioned into mini trees and even decorated with paper ornaments while bark cut into a star shape makes for a stunning homespun embellishment.
Handwritten Greetings
Show friends and family you really care with gift wrap that’s personalized. Coming up with a unique written wish is only half the work; this spirited design puts your calligraphy chops to the test.
That’s a wrap! Whatever wrapping paper project speaks to you, have fun making it your own! It’s those personal touches that leave a lasting impression.
Photographer: Valerie Wilcox
Source: House & Home December 2019
Designer: Produced by Kai Ethier & Jennifer Koper