I plan to spend at least part of today wrapping gifts – in part because I think the Christmas tree just looks better with presents underneath but also so I don’t fall behind.
This year, I want to use some natural elements on my gifts and so I browsed the web for new ideas.
That’s why Tip #8 in our series of Christmas decorating ideas is ways to give your gifts a natural look.
The image above from HGTV is so many ideas wrapped into one.
One of the gifts is wrapped in craft paper, which also makes for a natural look. Then there’s the simple ribbons, the pinecones, feathers, and evergreen sprigs. Even the palette is perfect!
]And although it’s not a natural element, the use above of sheet music for wrapping works great with this look.
Of course, adding a touch of a natural element doesn’t have mean such a, well, neutral color scheme.
Look at the beautiful gifts at right, which I found at Better Homes and Gardens.
Although the wrappings are colorful, a couple of these presents have little sprigs of greenery and berries.
It’s just enough to suggest a natural look.
A key to this look is using ribbon to tie simple bows. Store-bought, fluffy just don’t work well with natural elements.
Another key is not to go too crazy with your berries, twigs and other items. Look how simple but beautiful the BHG packages are below.
So how do you create these beautifies?
The key is creativity. Look around your yard and snip away at greenery – of all types, it doesn’t have to be pine – and look for rose hips, berries and dried bits and pieces that will add a special touch to a package.
Not everything has to be real of course. Pick up some of those little bits and pieces of faux pine that fell of your tree when you put it up this year. Cut apart a wreath that’s lived its better years. Pick up a few picks of fake berries at the craft store. Remember, all this stuff is reusable.
Now comes the fun part: Making each package unique.
Use ribbons to tie on longer sprigs. Use hot glue to attach pine cones, berries and other pieces – just be careful of what that heat will do to your wrapping and ribbons. Some will fare better than others!
You can use these same ideas for more than just boxes. Try them on simple paper sacks, like the ones below in an image from MyHomeIdeas.com. Or how about on the carton below, where a carnation adds an even brighter touch.
Will you try some natural decorating this year for your gift wrap? I will and I’ll share some photos. I’d love to see yours too.
