Wrap It Up: Create Unique Gift Wrap for Your Handmade Gifts

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Use paper crafting techniques to create unique gift wrap that will impress any recipient.

Author: Karen Bulmahn

So many times we spend hours or even days shopping for or creating the perfect gift. Then we put this special present in a box and wrap it in store-bought gift wrap, which communicates mixed messages to the gift-giver: the most awesome contents clothed in the least creative packaging. The gift wrap makes the first impression. Take some time and create unique gift wrap that will impress the recipient.

When giving cylindrical gifts such as candles or bottles, a quick and easy way to decorate the gift is to create a belly wrap. Using cardstock, patterned paper, stickers, stamps, punches and other paper crafting supplies, wrap paper around the middle of the cylinder. Add extra embellishments, ribbons and a central focal point to finish the wrap.

Decorating shaped tins or containers is a fun way to spice up your gift giving. Cover them with patterned paper to correspond to the event requiring the gift. Add embellishments and ribbon to complete the look. Festively wrapped tins are especially fun to give to teachers at holiday times!

Try fabric! Fabric comes in thousands of patterns and colors and is sold in large pieces. Use it to wrap a box or create a bag and place the gift inside. You can also tear strips of fabric to use as ties on handles, as a bow, or to attach a card or tag. Use a plain, light fabric and stamp a design onto the background. Simply fold fabric in half to create a square or rectangle (depending on the shape of the gift), and stitch two sides together to create a gift bag. Place the gift inside and tie it closed - very simple, yet a memorable wrap!

Finally, you can create your own wrapping paper. Buy a roll of plain craft paper and use rubber stamps, paint, crayons or any other paper craft tools to design a special gift wrap to match the theme of your gift. This is fun for kids, too. Let them create a handmade gift wrap for a family member or a special friend’s birthday!

Gifts don’t have to be presented in an everyday manner. Try some of these unique gift wrap ideas to express your creativity the next time you give a gift!