Holiday Gift Wrapping Tips 2014

Present your presents in fun and fresh new ways with these creative tips

Credit: Kathleen Almeida

Leave a lovely first impression by thinking outside of the gift box this holiday with these wrapping tips

True, it is what’s on the inside that counts, but a perfectly pretty package never hurt anyone either. We spoke with Rebekah Cooksey, Michaels Vice President of Education and Projects, and dug into our own creative arsenal to help you elevate your gift presentation this season.

Credit: Kathleen Almeida

Reuse Material

Concerned about all of the paper waste that comes from wrapping? Fear not. Old newspapers and magazines can make for great gift wrap. Decorative ribbon or string is all it takes to make it look like it should be under the tree and not in the recycle bin. Not only is this option environment friendly, it’s cost effective as well (code for easy on your wallet).

Credit: Kathleen Almeida

Personalize with a Monogram

Even better than a gift is a gift that you know was picked and packaged just for you. An easy way to do this is with a personalized monogram. “Monograms and initials are a really simple addition to an otherwise finished gift that give it a special touch” says Cooksey. We personalized a package wrapped in craft paper by creating our monogram with double-sided tape and glitter to create a shiny ombré effect.  You could also try creating a monogram with washi or glitter tape.

Credit: Kathleen Almeida

Chalkboard Inspired

Chalkboard accents have been making appearances in everything from weddings to art prints, and Cooksey notes that the trend has worked its way into wrapping. We used black wrap and a white paint pen to personalize and decorate our gift. You can really take this in any direction you choose with chalkboard labels, chalk or simply a white pen.

Credit: Kathleen Almeida

Embrace Metallics

Sparkle and shine has always been on trend for the holiday season, with gold making a particularly strong presence in recent years. The metallic movement is stronger than ever, so don’t hold back from silver, bronze and gold in all forms. We used metallics in our wrap, the bakers twine and the Scotch Expressions Washi Tape.

Credit: Kathleen Almeida

Holiday Brights

Don’t let the tradition of green and red hold you back from using bright punches of neon in your packaging. Integrate bright colours in your wrapping using ribbon or washi tape. Here, we used Scotch Expressions Washi and Magic Tape.

Credit: Kathleen Almeida

Yarn Accents

Not a knitter? (Try saying that five times fast.) Not a problem. You can still enjoy the versatility of this inexpensive material in your gift wrap by using easy-to-make pom-poms in place of bows or using a chunky yarn in place of ribbon. Cooksey also suggests adding something special like a cinnamon stick to your yarn-adorned package. Not only does it look chic, but it smells nice too!

Credit: Kathleen Almeida

Alternative Packaging

Forget the wrap all together and let the packaging speak for itself. Place your gifts in alternatives to regular boxes like decorative tins or take-out boxes. We found our tins at IKEA. Once the gift opening is done, your recipient can give the re-use the packages.