Whenever I get a present that would fit well into the box available at the store, I ask for a box. And even if I can't get a free gift box, many other presents come in a package that can be easily wrap (And boy do I love it when the packaging is square/rectangular). I've refused to buy wrapping paper for the last two year and it's actually working out pretty well.
How do I wrap my presents, you ask? The secret is the brown paper bag you pack your groceries into at the store!
I cut the bottom out, use it like normal wrapping paper (with the printed side touching the present itself), tie it up with hemp string, and finish it off with a few personal touches. Last year, I made personalized tags from card stock, a glitter pen, and glue. This year, I've made more basic name tags and little origami ornaments. This way, I can get two uses of the bag and the paper can still be recycled.
You can see my creations from this year here (Yes, I start buy and wrapping mid-November so I can drag out this process for as long as possible):
A bit of patterned holly...
A cute little fox (He/she is sideways, see the nosey and the eyes?).
Have you started preparing for the holidays? Do you have any tips? I'd love to hear from you!
