With the holiday season upon us, it is time to consider how to wrap the pile of gifts under the bed! Instead of being one more thing on the holiday to-do list, the gift-wrapping process has the opportunity to be an authentic expression of creativity. The presentation of wrapped gifts can be like an additional gift itself, reflecting the imagination of the giver and adding extra depth of meaning through the thoughtfulness and originality. Wrapping gifts with loved ones can also provide an enjoyable activity and time of connection with a partner or kids during this busy season. Perhaps they will have creative ideas on how to wrap the gifts! If not, here are some of our favorites:

Recycled Paper Bags

This is a great option, especially for those who are environmentally conscious regarding the reuse of materials. It is also a good option for those who do not feel terribly creative, as you will be using the graphics and wording already printed on that particular bag. One less decision to make during this season is always a winner!

Soft Hues of Watercolors

The beautiful, soft shades of watercolor can brighten up any gift. This is a great option to get your family involved in the wrapping. If the kiddos are not quite old enough to actually help with the wrapping, give them some white paper, watercolors, and a paintbrush and let them go to town! An even better idea would be a large roll of white paper that can be cut into sections for different sized gifts. This way you can choose the parts of the painting that will appear most prominently on the gift.

Washi Tape

Brown craft paper and washi tape is a match made in design heaven. This combination can be simple, to add a pop of color, or more elaborate. Using a few coordinating patterns of tape in a basket weave fashion adds a festive element, as well.

3D Wrapping

Add a 3D object to the gift for extra dimension. Choose small items like toy cars, crayons, and candy to match what is inside. For example, you could add a small Hot Wheels® car to go with the racetracks that are inside. Other possibilities include a candy bar, package of gum, glittery artificial floral stem, pinecones, or small Christmas ornaments.

Word Search Gift Tags

Create a DIY word search that includes a “to” and “from” section. If printed on regular printer paper, this will generally work better for smaller gifts so that you can center the necessary wording to the desired location on the wrapped gift.

Use a Map

This is another ready-made printed paper that can conceal those gifts for your adventure-seeking recipients. This option would be especially appropriate for gifts such as travel accessories, like on-the-go water or coffee containers. Nostalgic gifts of past travels such as a framed photo or photo book of a specific trip would fit well within the confines of a map as well.

Choose a Palette

Be intentional about the scene you would like to create beneath your Christmas tree. This option allows the gift giver to savor the beauty as well, while the gifts are waiting to be given. The soft glow of Christmas tree lights cast over a stack of coordinating colors can create a harmonious landscape with a peaceful visual appeal.

Raid the Craft Closet

This is another great option to repurpose items that you already own. Can you cinch up a scrap of fabric with some thick yarn? Go wild with the eclectic bag of buttons that you do not know how else to use! Add sequins, glitter, or puffy paint to the gift tag. Grab that stack of felt and craft some felt flower toppers.

Scented Wrapping or Tissue Paper

Engage the senses this holiday season! This option can be purchased commercially from several retailers. This can also be a fun DIY project to customize with your favorite holiday aroma. To accomplish this at home, place one to three drops of your desired holiday blend of essential oils on a cotton ball. Place this oiled cotton ball in a sealed plastic bag with the paper and let it sit for at least 24 hours. Do not let the cotton ball come into direct contact with the paper or it will leave an oily stain. When the bag is opened, the scent should have absorbed into the paper and will lightly greet the recipient when opening the wrapped gift.

Sweeten It Up

Place a gourmet, custom holiday cookie in a cellophane envelope, backed with a piece of cardstock providing the gift tag information. Punch two holes in the envelope and thread with ribbon, which can then be tied around the gift for an extra dose of yum!

Box Alternatives

Want to spice up giving your loved one a gift card? Place it in a themed container! Place a spa certificate in a decorative cosmetic bag. Give a gift card to the movies in a popcorn box. Decorate a paint can to hold a gift card to a home improvement store.

Burlap Bag

This rustic option is a great one for those hard-to-wrap cylindrical objects. Even items such as mason jars can have a bit of protection with this option. A colorful tag is the perfect embellishment to pull in some holiday pizzazz!