Growing up, wrapping gifts was always one of my favourite holiday activities. My parents encouraged it by buying lots of fun paper, ribbons and gift tags to use – and in return my sister and I wrapped almost all their gifts for them. We would put on a favourite Christmas movie (usually Christmas Vacation) and wrap for hours. My dad still wrangles us into helping him every year.
These days, I still love to wrap up a gift and make it extra special for those who receive it. There is something about a real ribbon bow and crisp paper that just makes any gift look special.
This year I couldn’t help but sing brown paper packages tied up with string while I wrapped everything in kraft wrapping paper and kraft paper bags. I love the simplicity of the look, and how it makes the bright ribbon pop.
In the weeks leading up to the holidays, I noticed that I was gathering quite the collection of brown paper bags from different stores. Usually I would just reuse them for shopping bags or recycle them, but I noticed that they were just like the brown kraft paper bags that I had bought. Why not just reuse these ones?
After a little bit of dressing up, they turned into this! Fun and festive, and you’d never know they were originally a store bag.
First I printed off a couple of sheets of Christmas themed scrap book paper I found online. You could also use any leftover scrapbook paper you have at home too.
The Melting Pot bag is from when I brought home takeout white chocolate fondue for Garrett from a work Christmas party – he loved it!
If any of the edges didn’t press down completely, take a glue stick, lift up the edge and reapply the glue as needed.
Last year I picked up some of this candy cane striped tissue paper on sale for $0.50 after Christmas. I love the festive touch it adds. I only wish that I’d thought to grab more.
For another great environmentally friendly gift wrapping idea, check out my tutorial on Reusable Gift Bags. They are great for years of use, and help keep wrapping paper out of the landfills!
Paper bags are good option for packing and gift purpose. Moreover they are eco friendly. Go for them and save the environment.
Printed Paper Carrier Bags
Nice paper bags and reusable.
Were you aware that wrapping paper is not recyclable?
While the United States celebrate the holidays, Americans produce an additional 5 million tons of waste (four million of the 5 million tons consisting of wrapping paper and shopping bags).
I had no idea Mary! I tend to reuse bags or use fabric bags whenever I can. Thanks for letting me know.