GIFT WRAPPING

try a modern twist on an aging tradition

Wrapping gifts is an old tradition unconfined to a single holiday or occasion. In fact, wrapping items in a cloth was a popular way to transport personal items in ancient times. Because it was a clever way to disguise an item before revealing it to a recipient, the art of wrapping items became commonplace.

Our modern version of wrapping paper on rolls of cardboard in a variety of colors, characters, patterns and themes didn’t arrive until the 1900s. Since that time, the gift wrapping industry has blossomed into a $3.2 million industry, according to Hallmark.

After shopping, the costs of wrapping supplies can add up. But there’s truly no rules for wrapping presents! Consider these clever and cost effective solutions to concealing gifts for a surprising reveal.

Paper

Plain brown bags from local grocery stores or the neighbor dispensary can provide a blank canvas for creative freedom. Tie a piece of twine around the package and top with a simple tag for a rustic look. Or use shapes and stamps to decorate with fun and festive designs. An old trail map or sheet music might appeal to your outdoorsman or musician. Even newspapers can make interesting packaging. Include a small bow or ribbon for a pop of color. With paper, the possibilities are endless.

BEFORE YOU GO SHOPPING THIS SEASON, SPEND SOME TIME THINKING ABOUT HOW YOU’RE GOING TO WRAP YOUR GIFTS.

Cloth

Furoshiki is the Japanese art of wrapping items in fabric. Fabric is durable, and therefore can be used by the recipient of the gift inside. If you wrap an item in a new bandana or nice scarf, you’re giving two gifts. Thicker fabrics are more difficult to manipulate, but it can be done. Try these different methods of folding and tying using thin linens, such as kitchen towels, clothing, pillow cases, sheets and blankets. And don’t be afraid to improvise! It’s a hassle to waste wrapping paper and time on large items; just make a Santa-style bag using a blanket and decorative ribbon or rope.

Containers

Everyday objects like cereal boxes and toilet paper rolls can be transformed into gift boxes. Simply save leftover containers and decorate with washi tape, festive stickers, ribbons and paper. Recycle glass jars from products like baby food and pickles by removing the labels, and decorate the container or wrap in cloth or tissue paper. Decorative tins, lunch boxes and reusable totes are useful for recipients as well.

Before you go shopping this season, spend some time thinking about how you’re going to wrap your gifts. Explore dual purpose packaging, and never underestimate the power of a present wrapped with a little personal flair.