Master the Art of DIY Gift Wrapping: Festive, Creative, and Personalised Ideas

Christmas is a time for giving, and we’re giving you some great tips to help you take your gift wrapping to the next level. Unique or DIY gift wrapping adds a special touch to your gifts, making your presents stand out under the tree. In this guide, we’ll give you tips and ideas on how to wrap Christmas gifts using various smart, budget-friendly, and eco-conscious techniques.

Essential Supplies for DIY Christmas Gift Wrapping

Depending on the style and technique you’re choosing you may not need everything listed here, so use this as a general guide.

Basic Tools You May Need

• Sharp scissors
• Strong tape
• Glue
• Ruler for precise folds
• Optional: Bone folder for clean folds and creases

Wrapping Materials

• Wrapping or kraft paper
• Cellophane sheets
• Tissue paper
• Ribbon or twine
• Gift box

Decorative Items

• Bows
• Decorative ribbon
• Stickers or seals
• Washi tape
• Gift tags
• Dried greenery, orange slices, and cinnamon sticks

Creative Wrapping Paper Alternatives

Eco-Friendly Options

Opt for sustainable wrapping alternatives like brown kraft paper, recycled newspaper, or reuse already-owned gift bags and boxes. Tie them up with twine and embellish with natural decorations, which also creates a rustic look.

You can also repurpose items such as scarves, tea towels, or fabric remnants as reusable gift wraps. These double as part of the present and encompass the spirit of giving.

Personalised Wrapping Paper

Create custom Christmas wrapping paper by hand-painting snowy landscapes, using festive stamps, or printing family photos. These personalised touches make your gifts truly one-of-a-kind.

Unique Wrapping Techniques

Furoshiki Wrapping

Use (typically silk or cotton) fabrics to wrap gifts using the traditional Japanese Furoshiki technique. The fabric itself acts as a closure and decorative feature as it ties into a bow at the top, but you can add additional embellishments by tucking them under the knot. There are many guides online with steps on how to tie Furoshiki correctly, and it can work for a wide variety of item shapes.

Envelope Fold

Perfect for books or flat items, this fold creates a polished, envelope-like effect. Alternatively, you can use origami techniques for more a unique or ornate look. Add a Christmas tag or wax seal for an elegant finish.

Layered Paper Designs

Combine two different papers, such as a plain kraft base with a strip of patterned paper on top, to create a layered look. Different combinations can change the overall feel, so experiment with colours, patterns and layering to find the perfect look. You can also try adding 3-dimensional elements with paper, using origami or interesting textures to further enhance your gift wrap. Finish with a coordinating ribbon or other complimentary decorative element.

Decorating Christmas Packages

Nature-Inspired Decorations

Enhance your wrapping with natural elements like sprigs of festive greenery (fir, mistletoe, holly), dried fruits and cinnamon, or pinecones. Tie together using natural twine or jute ribbon.

Festive Bows and Ribbons

Craft bows from velvet ribbon, tinsel, or glittered fabric. Layer multiple ribbons in complementary colours for a luxurious effect.

Holiday-Themed Accents

Incorporate mini candy canes, jingle bells, or snowflake ornaments into your wrapping. These accents can double as keepsakes for the recipient.

Festive Wrapping for Children

Turn your gift into a festive character such as Santa, a snowman, or a reindeer, by making your gift resemble them. You can do this by using wrapping paper that matches the character and matching the design, such as using the paper layering method with red and white paper for Santa, using brown kraft paper for a reindeer, or glittery white paper for a snowman. Cut out and attach features such as eyes, nose, and mouth, buttons, ears and antlers, and a Santa hat.

Wrapping Oddly-Shaped Christmas Gifts

Christmas Gift Bags and Boxes

For irregularly shaped items, reusable gift bags or boxes are a lifesaver. Decorate these with ribbons or holiday stickers.

Creative Folding Techniques

Use pleating or gathered wrapping methods to neatly cover spherical or cylindrical gifts. Furoshiki can also be used here for a fabric alternative.

Fabric Pouches with Festive Flair

Sew or tie cloth pouches from pretty fabric. They’re reusable and perfect for small or delicate gifts like ornaments or jewellery.

Tips for Wrapping Like a Pro

Measure and Cut with Precision

Avoid wasting paper by measuring beforehand – place items on top of your wrapping paper and make sure to leave enough on either side to be able to fold over to the other side, including extra for folding edges and securing.

Use a ruler to ensure straight edges for a polished finish.

Neat and Crisp Edges

Press folds firmly with a bone folder or the back of a spoon to achieve professional-looking creases. Leave a couple of centimetres or extra paper at the edges and fold them under before taping to hide any raw edges.

Fix Wrapping Mistakes Easily

Use embellishments like stickers or washi tape to cover tears or uneven areas. No-one will ever know!

Last-Minute Checks

Ensure all wrapping is secure, embellishments are intact, and tags are correctly labelled before gifting.

Have fun trying out some different gift wrapping techniques this year!