Wrapping paper is a traditional choice for wrapping gifts, but unfortunately, it creates a lot of unnecessary waste that could be avoided with eco-friendlier alternatives. This holiday season, we want to inspire you to make the switch to reusable wrapping ideas. Here's some ideas for you.
1. Furoshiki Cloth Wrapping
Furoshiki, the Japanese art of wrapping, is one of the most versatile and elegant options for gift wrapping. All you need is a piece of fabric, and the possibilities are endless. You can try our FabRaps as well, combining timeless elegance, style, and sustainability.
Furoshiki wrapping is easy. All you need is a square cloth - one of our FabRaps, a scarf, or fabric you have at home, and tie it in a decorative not. For smaller gifts, you can even use napkins or fabric scraps.
This sustainable wrapping alternative is zero waste and also doubles as part of the gift. A beautiful scarf or tea towel adds an element of thoughtfulness, as it can be reused by the recipient of your gift. You can also choose seasonal colours or patterns to add a festive charm!
For more furoshiki wrapping inspiration, visit our website or Instagram.
2. Upcycled Paper Bags and Newspapers
Paper bags, newspapers, and magazines lying around in your home make great wrapping materials. Give them a second life by turning them into budget-friendly and easy gift wraps. Cut open grocery bags or use sections of the newspaper to wrap your gift.
Decorate with twine, dried flowers, or sprigs of greenery to add a more festive or personal note to your gifts.
While newspapers add a vintage feel to your gift, paper bags provide a rustic, minimalistic look. Both are fully recyclable and can be made from materials you probably already have, making this a great low-waste option.
Tip: You can also use coloured pages, comics, or maps to add a unique touch to any gift.
3. Reusable Tote Bags or Drawstring Bags
You may not have thought of this, but reusable tote bags or drawstring bags make excellent gift wraps, especially for unique or oddly shaped items that are hard to wrap in wrapping paper.
Place the gift inside the bag and tie it shut with a ribbon or piee of twine. As these bags come in various sizes, you can find one that fits your gift perfectly.
The recipient of your gift can also reuse the bag for shopping, groceries, or storage, which makes the gift wrap functional as well.
Look for holiday-themed or handmade bags to add a seasonal touch, or choose bags with the recipient's favourite designs or colours.
4. Mason Jars and Glass Containers
Mason jars and other glass containers make a charming, reusable gift wrapping option for smaller gifts, especially edible items, spa gifts, or small accessories.
Fill the jar with treats or small gifts and decorate it with a bow, twine, or a fabric cover on the lid to add a festive touch.
Glass containers are durable, reusable, and versatile, so the recipient can use them for storage, decor, or other DIY projects.
5. Old Maps, Sheet Music, Book Pages
Repurpose any old maps, sheet music, or pages from vintage books to create stunning themed gift wraps - perfect for travellers, lovers of music or literature. This is a great way to give a second life to materials that might otherwise be thrown away.
Wrap your gifts like you would with regular wrapping paper and elevate them with some simple ribbon, twine, or a wax seal. Using these materials not only reduces waste, but also adds a touch of nostalgia and special charm to any gift.
To add a more personal note, use a page that connects to the recipient's interests, such as a map of their favourite city or country, a song they love, or a page from a favourite book.
6. Baskets and Wooden Boxes
Small baskets or wooden boxes are not technically wrapping, but they can elevate your gift's presentation. They are able to hold multiple sizes and can be easily reused by the recipient of your gift.
Arrange the items inside the basket or box and use fabric or dried flowers to fill any gifts. You can top it off with a beautiful ribbon or a sprig of greenery.
This packaging idea adds a rustic touch to the gift and the recipient can reuse the basket or box within their home. For an extra touch, you can also decorate the outside of the box or basket to your liking.
7. Old Clothing and Fabric Scraps
Got some old clothes, bed sheets or fabric scraps you don't need anymore? You can reuse them as gift wrap to give them a second life.
Cut fabric pieces that are large enough to wrap your gifts, and as you would with a furoshiki, wrap your gift with knots, ribbons, and bows. This idea creates a textured and creative look that is both reusable and unique.
The Gift of Sustainable Wrapping
Using reusable materials to wrap your gifts does not only reduce unnecessary waste, it adds a personal touch that shows your thoughtfulness and creativity. Each gift becomes more than just what's inside - it becomes a unique experience that's kinder to the planet than conventional wrapping paper.
This holiday season, get creative with sustainable and beautiful wraps that turn every gift into something even more special. These creative ideas will make your gifts stand out, while inspiring others to embrace new, eco-friendly wrapping traditions!