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Wrapping It Up

It’s not just gift-gifting season; it’s also wrapping paper season! And with more time on my hands than in Christmases past, I’ve been putting a bit more thought and style into present presentation. Instead of buying holiday-themed gift bags in bulk, I’ve decided to put my seasonal craftiness (which is limited) to the test by boxing, wrapping, and ribboning this year’s roster of gifts. The great thing I’ve discovered is that whether you prefer a minimalist look or want to dress up your presents with literal bells and whistles, there are affordable and easy to order rolls for every aesthetic. Here is a rundown of some obvious and unexpected wrapping paper resources for craftier gift-giving.

If you haven’t already, check out Target’s collection of zany prints and neon colors. Their eclectic patterns of llamas, sharks, and unicorns are the perfect paper for the kids on your gift list. They also have more traditional prints like candy canes, buffalo plaid, penguins, and some elegant options of silver trees, scattered foil, and red and white stripes. I also really love their “dinosaur wearing a Santa hat” print, which would be perfect for wrapping up a brand-new T-Rex and trimmed with ribbon and mini-dino instead of a bow. The best thing about Target is the big (and eclectic) selection at a low price.

Speaking of selection, Papermart prides itself in having “the largest selection in the nation,” according to their website. Not only do they trade in wrapping paper, but also gift bags, trimmings, tissue paper, and shipping supplies for mailing out gifts to loved ones both near and far. I particularly enjoy the botanical Christmas pattern collection and their wired satin ribbon for a more sophisticated gift presentation for your family’s grand dame. Plus, if buying in bulk, you get additional savings.

Another great resource for gift wrap is The Container Store. I personally am loving the cream cable sweater wrapping paper. Is it too on the nose to wrap my husband’s sweater in sweater paper? No, he probably won’t even notice. Besides purchasing paper, you’ll also find organizationally minded stocking stuffers like USB chargers, pencil cases, and earbud cleaning kits. And while you’re at it, throw a few storage tubs into your virtual cart for bins to put away all of the old stuff that will be replaced by the new stuff Santa’s bringing.

If you’re looking to add even more whimsy to the season, check out Anthropologie’s wrapping paper options. They have rolls in wintry florals, Scandinavian-inspired prints, and traditional Christmas motifs. Also on offer are two-toned and craft wrapping paper. If you hate messing about with tape, then consider tying up gifts with their colorful holiday wrapping cloth. Plus, they even have gift kits with tags, mini-wreaths, and pom-poms, with paper, cotton, and velvet ribbons to make your present that extra special.

I love the idea of wrapping cloth in general. It’s unexpected, creative, and sustainable, as it’s ideal for reuse. No more shouts from grandma to “save the paper!” The cloth itself can be part of the gift. For an even greener approach, check out World Market’s upcycled fabric gift wrap, which is made from apparel scraps and can be re-utilized as tea towels, handkerchiefs, napkins, or surface covers. If you’re feeling super crafty, you can gather your own leftover fabrics from the year’s past projects and sew up your own DIY wrapping cloths and gift bags.

Naturally, during this season, one of my favorite things is brown-paper packages wrapped up with string. That’s why I love the idea of gifts wrapped in butcher paper and trimmed with simple jute twine. You can find both on Amazon with 2-day Prime shipping, and buying in bulk is budget friendly. Brown paper is suitable for all gift-giving occasions, not just Christmas. You can personalize and decorate presents by writing or coloring on the paper, so no need for gift tags!

Of course, it’s the thought that counts with any gift, but why not make that thought as pretty, cute, and elegant as can be with creative and thoughtful wrapping. You can wrap each gift according to type of gift or assign each recipient on your gift list their own individualized paper, like plum fairies for baby sister and reindeer for Uncle Fred. Or, wrap all of your gifts in the same paper with or without a theme. Trim with standard ribbon and bows, or experiment with avant-garde finishings like holly springs, toy cars, or barrettes. If you’re wondering what to give the person that already has everything they need, consider donating in their name to a charity that is close to their hearts.

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