Most of us spend a considerable amount of time carefully choosing gifts for our loved ones, but how much thought do we then put into the wrapping? With just a little time, effort and planning, you can create a beautiful presentation for that special gift, while still being environmentally conscientious.
When the holidays arrive, I start spending time thinking about what I'm going to use to wrap my presents this year and start gathering my materials. On my list is; as always the old glue gun, must have glitter and glitter paint, of corse pipecleaners, craft glue, fine wire, and spray paint, all in an endeavor to rid the package of the bow. It's been a long time since I bought a bag of bows, but have used some store bought orniments, twigs, dry leaves and flowers, pinecones, acorns, pieces of evergreen tree and anything else I can pick from my backyard.
Here's some I especially liked.
Start with an easy, simple base, such as brown paper or raffeta to cover the box. Embellish with pinecones, holly, acorns or maybe feathers to create a festive to whimsical wrapper. Try some spray paint, such as gold, silver or another holiday color. Pinecones look especially lovely in gold with a light coat of glitter. Acorns and other nuts look good in red attached to some rough edged leaves sprayed green or even gold. When your happy with the arrangement just attach to the box with the glue gun and sit back and enjoy the outcome.
Newspaper, lightly dusted with spray paint can be transformed into stunning wrap. Add just a few sprigs of Christmas tree or maybe fern for your bow, or maybe some old orniments that were going to the trash and presto a pretty present. Using jingle bells and holly or a fancy reusable cord for a bit of whimsy, or glittered up fabric ribbon and silk flowers can create drama. Most of all don't be afraid to try out different color and texture combinations to achieve that special look. Last year I came acrossed a jug of bottle caps and some bags of beads. I used a little spray paint on the caps and attached the beads to create reusable orniments. They were also used to decorate my presents. So you see, your can just about change anything into a holiday decoration.
Use last years Christmas cards by cutting out the pics and making gift tags. Also you can make use of pictures from holiday catalogues, glued to card stock and the tag problem is solved, making you beautiful gifts ready to go.
Remember to enjoy giving your presents that personal touch. Holidays can be a little hair raising, so go for a walk...you might just find the perfect addition to a present.
Gift wrap in the U.S. turns into 40 million tons of trash every year. Check out these websites for additional creative ideas.
Advice on where to find wrapping paper and cards made from recycled materials. Conservatree.org
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