Some people are blessed with the art of gift-giving, and others… Well, it’s the thought that counts. Wrapping fails are just a reality of the holidays, from torn corners to oddly shaped presents. (What are you supposed to do with that basketball for your nephew?!) Don’t go the shiny gift bag route just yet — there are still plenty of ways to package your pressies without wrapping paper.
1. Tins Wrapped in Fabric: It’s not the size of the present that matters. Put tiny treats inside little tins and then wrap those up in a circle of fabric. Add a bit of baker’s twine and you’ve instantly elevated the presentation. (via Hello Natural)
2. Confetti Gift Wrap: No need to worry about tearing beautiful gift wrap anymore. This packaging was made by Mod Podgeing some confetti inside a clear box, effectively and colorfully hiding the presents. (via Julep)
3. Dipped in Confetti: If you gave the old wrapping paper a try and botched the corner folding, a quick fix is to slap some double-sided tape onto the tear and sprinkle on confetti. That way it looks totally intentional. (via Brit + Co)
4. Glitter Gift Box: Another festive trick is to deck out some plain gift boxes with glitter and glue. This would look awesome on bigger boxes too. (via For the Makers)
5. Color Block Canister: Believe it or not, this trendy color blocked box was made using a bamboo steamer — you know, the thing that keeps your dumplings warm. A couple coats of paint transform it into a way chicer gift box than the average store-bought tin. (via You Are My Fave)
6. Knotted Fabric Box: Okay, so you can’t wrap a box. But can you tie a bow? Because that’s all you need to do to turn a swath of fabric into a smart gift bundle. (via Julep)
7. Wine Bottle Wraps: Showing up with the grocery store brown bag is NOT okay. Add a personal touch to that bottle of wine by wrapping it up in a dish towel, old sweater sleeve or simply sewn felt. (via Crème de la Craft)
8. Taped Wrapping Paper Edges: If your only option is the spare roll of wrapping paper in the closet, cover your bases (AKA your edges) using shiny tape, which will hide any of those badly wrapped corners. (via Design Love Fest)
9. Colorful Tights: Just because you don’t wear those bright tights anymore doesn’t mean they need to go straight into the trash can. Cut them in pieces, wrap the two ends together in a knot and boom — present is disguised. (via Brit + Co)
10. Pyramid Box: This one is a little bit challenging, but definitely doable. Follow the origami-like steps to create pyramid-shaped boxes, which are perfect for round gifts like baseballs or truffles. (via Willow Day)
11. Cheese Paper: Cheese makes such a good gift for the party host because 1) it’s the best, and 2) it’s supposed to be wrapped messily, to give it that straight-from-the-fromagerie look. (via Oh Happy Day)
12. Neon Duct Tape: Duct tape. Is there anything it can’t fix? It even solves your bad wrapping skills by coming in all sorts of bright colors these days. Use it to fashion your own perfectly sized packages. (via Brit + Co)
13. Reusable Tote: Why even bother with gift bags? They’re pricey, kind of gaudy and will only get used twice at best. If you’re really in a rush, bring it in a way more practical vessel — the reusable tote. World Market has some beautiful ones. (via The Accidental Okie)
14. Giant Gift Bow: If all else fails and you’re still stuck using crinkled wrapping paper, there is no shame in just slapping a big-ass bow on top of the problem areas and calling it a day. (via Homedit)
Are you trying any new gift wrapping techniques this year? Tell us your tricks in the comments!
