Hello, dear readers of GertieBlu! The holiday season is fast approaching, and it’s the perfect time to start planning not only gifts but how we present them in a way that’s kind to our planet. Wrapping paper is often single-use and contributes to a lot of waste over the holidays. This year, let’s celebrate with a little extra thought for the environment by choosing sustainable gift-wrapping options. Here are some beautiful, eco-friendly ideas that add a thoughtful touch to your gifts and keep waste to a minimum!
1. Reusable Fabric Wraps: Inspired by Japanese Furoshiki
Furoshiki, the traditional Japanese art of wrapping items in cloth, is a chic and sustainable way to present gifts. You can use scarves, tea towels, or square pieces of fabric that are beautiful enough for the recipient to reuse in various ways. Not only does this eliminate waste, but the fabric wrap also becomes an extra gift itself!
Tips:
- Try to match the fabric to the recipient’s taste so they’ll be excited to use it again.
- For holiday-themed wraps, look for thrifted scarves or second-hand stores for affordable options in reds, greens, and winter patterns.
2. Upcycled Newspaper and Magazines
Using old newspapers, magazines, or maps adds a unique, vintage touch to your gift. With a little creativity, these materials can look as chic as store-bought wrapping paper. Plus, they’re easy to recycle after use or repurpose into art projects.
Tips:
- Choose sections of newspapers with fun prints, like comic strips, crossword puzzles, or international sections.
- Tie it off with biodegradable twine and add a sprig of greenery for a festive touch.
3. Brown Paper with a Personal Twist
Brown kraft paper is 100% recyclable and gives gifts a rustic, cozy feel. It also provides a blank canvas for customization! Use natural decorations like pinecones, holly, or small dried orange slices to add a festive, earthy look.
Tips:
- Try painting simple patterns on the paper with eco-friendly paint to add a personalized touch.
- Add some biodegradable twine or a fabric ribbon to enhance the rustic look.
4. Recycled Paper or Seed Paper
If you’re buying wrapping paper, consider choosing one made from recycled paper. Many eco-friendly companies now make beautiful wrapping paper using recycled materials and vegetable-based inks. Or, for an extra-special touch, use seed paper that can be planted in the spring to grow flowers or herbs—how’s that for a gift that keeps on giving?
Tips:
- When choosing seed paper, make sure it’s compatible with your local climate for the best chances of growth.
- Look for eco-friendly ink and packaging options when buying recycled paper.
5. DIY Gift Bags from Old Fabrics
If you have a stash of fabric scraps or old linens, consider making simple gift bags that can be reused year after year. Fabric gift bags are great for oddly shaped items and can be closed with a ribbon or drawstring. They’re easy to make, even for beginner DIYers, and bring a cozy, handmade touch to your gift-giving.
Tips:
- Look for holiday prints or colors to make the bags feel festive.
- If you’re not into sewing, you can use iron-on hem tape to finish the edges!
6. Natural Elements as Decorations
For a final touch, use natural elements to adorn your gifts. Things like sprigs of pine, small pinecones, cinnamon sticks, or even dried flowers can make a gift look beautiful and seasonal without needing plastic bows or metallic accents.
Tips:
- Pine, eucalyptus, and rosemary sprigs not only look lovely but add a fresh, natural scent to the gift.
- Gather these items from your backyard or local parks if possible—just make sure to collect responsibly and legally.
7. Glass Jars and Tins for Edible Gifts
If you’re giving edible gifts, skip the wrap altogether and present them in reusable glass jars or tins. You can often find affordable, vintage tins at thrift stores or use mason jars. This zero-waste approach is perfect for cookies, jams, or homemade granola!
Tips:
- Add a piece of fabric over the lid of a mason jar, securing it with string or ribbon for a pop of color.
- Vintage tins can become part of the gift as they’re perfect for storing holiday goodies year-round.
8. Secondhand Holiday Wraps and Ribbons
Another sustainable option is to buy secondhand wrapping paper, ribbons, and boxes from thrift stores. Many people donate excess holiday supplies, so you might be able to score some fun vintage or unique prints at a fraction of the cost.
Tips:
- Check thrift stores, online marketplaces, or community swap events for secondhand wrapping options.
- If you can’t find the perfect wrapping paper, focus on reusable ribbons, boxes, and bags that you can use year after year.
Wrapping Up (Pun Intended!)
Choosing sustainable gift wrap doesn’t mean sacrificing style or joy. With these ideas, you can create a memorable and eco-conscious holiday that reflects thoughtfulness for the environment as much as for the recipient. After all, sometimes the wrapping can make the gift feel even more special. Here’s to a beautiful, waste-free holiday season—let’s celebrate with a green touch!
Happy wrapping from GertieBlu!
