Gift Wrapping Ideas

THE VALUE OF A GIFT DOES NOT ALWAYS LIE IN THE COST OF THE ITEM ITSELF. A SIMPLE GIFT CAN BE SO ELEVATED BY SPECIAL WRAPPING. IMAGES AND IDEAS BY ELIZABETH KELLY OF ELK PRINTS.

It's the thought that counts they say. It's true. But what better way to make that thought extra special by adding a unique touch to your gifts? Gift wrapping, and giving, like parties are a perfect opportunity of creative expression in our otherwise dreary lives, and makes your recipient feel oh so extra special!

Elizabeth Kelly, an artist and owner of party stationery business Elk Prints, was kind enough to give us some of her tips for personalising gifts.

Firstly, use kraft or white art paper for your wrap. It's blank and much more cost effective! For the brown paper, we have used the parcel wrapping paper from Officeworks, it's perfect for it.

For embellishment, keep it easy by layering lots of ribbons of different sizes and textures. Another idea is to decorate your gift with beautiful foliage or flowers. Painting directly onto the paper to make your own style of wrapping paper. is another idea.

ELIZABETH'S GIFT DRIP DIY

Why not design your own wrapping paper? You too, can create something unique like this gift wrapping drip DIY!

You'll need white art paper (you can find this at Officeworks, Riot Art & Craft or a dollar store), a brush of your choice and some high flow acrylic paint.

As the paint comes in a bottle, it is rather easy to create the drip effect on the edge. Just make sure you've put some paper down to control the mess! Once that is dry, you can then go over it with the brush and create strokes of your choice.

Voila! Your very own gift wrap design!