Christmas is just around the corner and it’s time to start wrapping those Christmas presents! If you’re like our family, we’ve been trying to find more environmentally-friendly and sustainable wrapping paper options that are not only good for the planet, but also beautiful and budget-friendly. I hope you find some gift wrapping ideas and inspiration below that help you have a charming Christmas without having to compromise on your eco-friendly values.
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Reuse
This is by far the most budget-friendly option! Use what you already have on hand. We keep all the gift bags, ribbons, bows, and tissue paper we receive over the course of the year in a dresser drawer and pull them out as needed. While they may not be environmentally-friendly in origin, reusing them can help prolong their trip to the landfill and prevent the need to buy more unsustainable wrapping options. There are a few gift bags that continue to be passed back and forth every Christmas around our trees.
Another way we reuse items as sustainable wrapping paper is to upcycle and think beyond traditional options. Whenever we get a paper bag from a shop or grocery store, we tuck away in the same drawer for repurposing as wrapping paper. If you are a crafty sort, you may have a stash of fabric on hand that can be used for a beautiful paper-free wrapping option. Old handkerchief and cloth napkins make good wrapping options for smaller items and even gift cards. Repurposing baskets, sheets, curtains and more from the local thrift shop is another way to upcycle.
Biodegradable
If you enjoy dressing up your packages or enjoy having a theme or color scheme under the tree, there are plenty of beautiful options involving biodegradable trimmings. Jute twine, cotton string, and natural fiber yarn all come in a variety of colors and make a great substitute for the plastic-derived ribbon and bow options. Also, some ribbon is made of natural materials, so just check labels to make sure you’re not getting a polyester one.
For a little flair, you can add dried flowers, greenery, or even dried orange slices. (If you’re short on time you can even buy pre-dried orange slices!) Or if you are able to paint or draw, you can add some embellishments if your paper option needs something extra. As for labeling gifts there are little wooden gift tags that can be reused each year. Or you tie a little piece of paper with the recipient’s name on it. Or if you like your handwriting or have a smidge of hand lettering or calligraphy skill, you can write directly on the wrapping paper.
Recyclable
When your gift list is long or you have a large family, it’s not always possible to avoid purchasing a few items. However, it is possible to source some sustainable options. Avoid paper and gift bags that have glitter, foil, plastic, or super high gloss as these are not recyclable. Rather than plastic tape, look for kraft paper tape or paper washi tape. Sometimes part of the gift itself can become the wrapping paper substitute. Maybe you can incorporate a cute hand towel, cozy blanket, basket, reusable shopping bags, or other container.
Hope this post has given you some inspiration and sparked ideas on how you can use more sustainable wrapping paper options into your holiday celebrations. If you want some more Christmas gift inspiration checkout these blogs posts:
