2 minute read
IT’S A WRAP
Wrapping gifts
The ritual of wrapping gifts was born from a desire to hide the identity of the gift until the right moment and a few things are more pleasing than seeing the look on someone’s face when they finally remove the wrapping.
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Gift wrapping dates back to 1903, and people used string and wax to secure the paper to the parcel – adhesive tape was only invented in 1930, and that of course changed the way we wrap. According to childrenmuseum.org an estimated additional 5 million tons of waste are generated during the festive season from wrapping paper and gifts bags.
Gift wrapping paper can be recycled as long as it does not contain glitter, sparkles, sequins, foil, artificial texture, sticky labels or plastic. It has also become more acceptable to use plant materials and decorated brown paper for wrapping as we are all becoming more environmentally conscious. Reusing gift bags is also not strange anymore and one would find people using gift bags for other purposes, like returning library books, for shopping and for storage of craft items.
What you need
To wrap a gift, you need the following: � Wrapping paper � A sharp pair of scissors � Quality ribbon (material/cloth/lace gives a nice finish) � Double sided tape.
It is always easier to neatly wrap a square or rectangular box, so it is advised that you use a box that will make wrapping look neater. Thicker paper also works better for neat folds and a professional appearance. Be creative and add your own personal stamp to the gifts – the value of the gift is not as important as the effort you put into wrapping it.
LEFT OVER SCRAPS OF PAPER
Somehow, we never use the full roll of paper and the bits that are left over are just too small. So here are some ideas of what to do with the left-over bits:
1. Make pretty envelopes that can be used during the year when you send people cards. 2. Make bunting – there are many other celebrations in the year where bunting can be used as decorations. 3. Shred the paper into confetti for another occasion. 4. Use the discarded wrapping to package fragile items when moving, storing or sending parcels. 5. Line your shelves or drawers with the colourful paper. 6. Make a disposable tray liner for when you entertain. 7. Use it to wrap books – even if you make a nice patchwork cover that will be unique and colourful.
