How to wrap a gift in a bag

Gather up a gift bag, tissue paper in a coordinating color(s), gift tag, and (optional) embellishments.

The bag should be two or three times larger than the gift. Always try to use fresh, new tissue paper for best results. Relegate used tissue paper to the bottom of the bag to act as cushioning or filler underneath the gift if the bag is deep. Remember: Remove or cover the price of the gift bag. A recipient should never know the price of anything that’s gift-related — unless the gift needs to be returned or exchanged, of course.

If the gift is fragile, loosely wrap it in some tissue paper and set it aside.

No need to tape the tissue!

Place three or four sheets of tissue paper on a flat surface, overlapping each sheet by a few inches; place the gift in the middle.

The tissue paper can be all one color or different colors. Use more or less paper, depending on the size of your gift. If the gift is small, use half-sheets of tissue paper.

Place three or four sheets of tissue paper on a flat surface, overlapping each sheet by a few inches; place the gift in the middle.

The tissue paper can be all one color or different colors. Use more or less paper, depending on the size of your gift. If the gift is small, use half-sheets of tissue paper.

Gather up the tissue paper, loosely, over the gift.

Take two opposite corners of the tissue paper and bring them up over the gift. Hold the paper with one hand while using the other hand to bring up the other two corners. Lightly scrunch the paper together right above the gift, leaving the rest of the paper as wrinkle-free as possible.

Lift the gift by the bottom and place it in the bag; gently arrange the tissue paper to your liking.

Remember: Tissue paper tears easily, so if you need to pull the tips into place, do so gently! Don’t overwork the paper — it’ll start to look wrinkled and used.

Add more tissue paper, if needed, as well as a gift tag.

Lay out a single sheet of tissue paper on a flat surface and smooth it out. Place your thumb and forefinger over the center of the paper and pick it up. Give it a quick flick of the wrist. Use your other hand to smooth it out a little; place it in the bag. Repeat as needed, varying the colors.

Add more tissue paper, if needed, as well as a gift tag.

Lay out a single sheet of tissue paper on a flat surface and smooth it out. Place your thumb and forefinger over the center of the paper and pick it up. Give it a quick flick of the wrist. Use your other hand to smooth it out a little; place it in the bag. Repeat as needed, varying the colors.

Take a final look at the tissue paper and arrange as needed.

If you want, add bows or embellishments to the bag for a final touch.

There’s no need for paper when you have ingenious gift wrap already lying around your house.

There are a ton of ingenious ways to wrap your presents this year without the use of store-bought wrapping paper.

1. Reusable gift wrap

Using a decorative handkerchief as an alternative to gift wrap is not only beautiful, but totally useful. The decorative wrapping can be used again and again to wrap other presents, or even worn by the gift receiver as a second present.

2. Recycled newspaper

Newspaper adds a timeless look to your presents. Accentuate the starch black and white letters with a beautiful ribbon, or even a few strands of twine. Alternatively, you can use the comic section of the newspaper to give presents a more playful look to them — great for kids.

3. Power of Mason jars

Mason jars are the gift wrapping solution for so many items — from cookies and hot cocoa mix to mulled wine and succulents. Add an adorable ribbon, small gift tag or a thin layer of fabric to the lid for extra pizzazz.

4. Decorative lunchbags

Don’t underestimate the creative opportunity that brown lunch bags have to offer. Get fancy with a coffee filter snowflake and a bow.

5. Unusual Gift Box

Looking for a small gift box for tiny goodies? Try reusing your toilet paper roll. This easy-to-make project can easily be enhanced with a few ribbons and bows.

6. Decorative shopping bags

Reuse your old fashion catalogs, magazines and shopping bags to make gift bags for the holidays. This easy DIY only takes a few minutes, but looks like it took so much longer.

7. Map it up

Gifting to a world traveler? Do it the right way with gifts wrapped inside maps. An elegant, meaningful touch to the holiday season that shows you care about your friends’ passions.

8. Tote gift bags

Fill a decorative tote bag with goodies to surprise your friends with a present within a present. Simple, cheap and so much easier than dealing with the woes of wrapping paper.

9. Trader Joe’s upgrade

Transform your dull paper grocery paper bag into a masterpiece. Just cut the bag down, flip it so the pattern is on the inside and the plain brown part is on the outside. Wrap your gift and decorate with stamps, twine, ribbons or whatever your heart desires.

10. Balloon Present

If you’re going to give money, get creative with your delivery. Forget the poorly executed gift wrap you normally attempt. This year, fill a clear balloon with confetti and your monetary gift. The fun part is when the receiver has to pop said balloon to get the money.

In this quick and easy video DIY Bowdabra creator, Sandy Sandler shows you how to wrap an organza gift bag. You can make this organza gift bag look so elegant and creative with the help of the Bowdabra bow maker in minutes. Make your gift lovely inside and out!

To start, cut the Bowdabra bow wire long enough to fold in half and tuck the ends underneath so it stays out of the way while you make your bow. Next, take 20 inches of the Bowdabra scrunchy ribbon and just insert it into the Bowdabra like an accordion.

Remove from the Bowdabra and tie a knot

Now, insert the loose wires through the loop on the other end. Then, remove from the Bowdabra, turn to the back, and tie a knot. Cut the wires close to the back and arrange your bow. Repeat the steps to make another bow.

Insert the gift and scrunchy bows

Next, insert your small gift into the bag. Then, since the organza bag is see-through insert the two scrunchy bows into the bag to hide the gift. Place the bag aside.

Make the tulle bow

Next, take the 40- inches of tulle and fold in half. Cut a piece of Bow wire and fold in half and insert into the Bowdabra tucking the ends underneath as you did before. Then, simply insert the tulle and make loops back and forth to make a little bow. Finally, take the mini roses, and insert them into the Bowdabra.

Finishing your organza gift bag

Finally, Insert the two loose wires through the loop and pull tight while the bow is still in the Bowdabra. Remove, turn to the back, and tie a knot. Use the wires to tie it onto your organza gift bag.

Organza gift bag

Please visit the Bowdabra blog each week. There, you will find a multitude of tutortials, videos and more! And be sure and like us on Facebook. Also, each Monday at 4:00 p.m. PST, 5:00 p.m. MST, 6:00 p.m. CST, and 7:00 p.m. EST, Bowdabra hosts a Facebook live. There is always something new to make and we take you through the easy steps. In addition, each week one lucky viewer will receive a special gift!

Yes, Bowdabra makes bow-making super easy. It’s like having a 3rd hand.

What makes this gift wrapping idea for a handbag so unique is that it is a breeze to make, yet oh! so chic. It is constructed from a file folder, the kind you buy at office supply stores with a center tab. Target, Walmart and Home Goods also have some colorful and patterned ones that would look very hip, so let your imagination run wild. The bottom of the bag is already made for you where the file folder is scored on it’s spine.

This bag is small, but still perfect for holding a gift card, lipstick, book, or a piece of jewelry. The brass-plated chain I used is called #250 Hobby Twist Chain, but any chain sold at a hardware store by the foot will do. You can also use an old beaded necklace found at a flea market to coordinate with the color of the file folder or even a strand of old pearls that have a jump ring attached to each end so that you can attach it to the bag.

Who ever is the receiver of this bag will squeal , Ooh-la-la! with delight.

supplies needed:

• 1 File Folder, with center tab
• 12-inches Chain
• 2 Brass Fasteners
• 1 Flat Gold Button (without shank)
• Ruler
• Craft Knife Pencil
• Glue
• 1 Small Circle of Velcro (hook & loop)
• Optional: Gift wrap and spray glue

Download the Handbag Gift Bag templates:

The first template is in its whole form so you can see how it all goes together. It prints out smaller than a file folder which is about 11- 1/2 inches. The template can be printed to any size, but the bottom section will always be the same width that has to be lined up with the fold in the center of the file folder to create the bottom of the bag.

The other three templates are the same template, but broken into sections that you can tape together. I wanted to give you some options. If you have access to a photocopier, you can have the full template enlarged so it fits across the width of the file folder.

1. Print out template and cut out. Center template on folders score lines in the center of the file folder as shown and trace around the template onto the folder. Make sure to mark placement for handle and all score lines.

I made a reusable template from an old file to re-use to make many gift-bags. I am using it to show you the first few steps in this tutorial.

2. Using a straight edge and an open pair of scissors, line up ruler along the score line and run scissor tip along ruler to score. Do not cut. You can also score the folder with the opened tip of a paperclip. Fold. Repeat this for all marked score lines.

3. Fold ready-made score lines that are part of the file folder to create bottom of the bag.

4. Use paper clips to hold in place until it is dry or use a thin line of hot glue.

5. Fold over top and punch holes where marked.

6. Place a brass fastener through end link on chain and put through punched hole. Spread fastener to attach. Repeat to attach handle to other side. You can see I switched from my brown template and am working on one made from a black file folder.

7. To cover fasteners, glue ¾” strip that is on the bottom right of the pdf. template to underside of top.

8. Stick Velcro dot on the front flap bottom center; close and stick other side of Velcro on the body of the bag.

9. Glue button on outside of flap to resemble a real handbag closure.

Options:

If you can’t find a file folder in a color or pattern you like you can cover the file folder with decorative gift wrap or scrapbook paper to the outside of the file folder before assembling. Use spray glue to attach the gift wrap.

To make a clutch style gift bag – click here: How to Make a Clutch Handbag Gift Bag

Never buy pre-made gift bags again! Learn how to make a gift bag from wrapping paper. It’s easy and PERFECT for oddly shaped items!

You know I love all kinds of DIY crafts, especially when they also save me money. This tutorial about how to make a gift bag from wrapping paper is a perfect example. These DIY gift bags are so easy to make and I think they are even cuter than store-bought options! I wish I could take credit for this idea, but I saw a video on Facebook around Christmas that I believe was posted by The Today Show (or another morning show–I can’t remember which one it was) demonstrating how to make a gift bag from wrapping paper. I was captivated and amazed. What a fabulous money-saving trick! And I have tons of beautiful wrapping paper, while beautiful gift bags aren’t that easy to come by. So, for those of you that did not have the luck of seeing the video, I am going to share the tutorial with you.

This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience. You can read my full disclosure policy here.

I made two bags for our twin girls’ 4th birthday. Our “big” gift to each of them was a Fur-Real Kitty that was oddly shaped and would not fit into any box that we had and it was too awkward to wrap. So, I decided to give making my own gift bags a try and I was thrilled with how they turned out. And it was super easy! If you prefer to watch a video to learn how to make a gift bag, you can watch me make one of these bags in the video below 🙂

Materials needed to make a DIY gift bag:

• Scissors
• Scotch tape
• Rectangle hole punch
• Ribbon
• Wrapping paper (I love Minted, EtsyandRifle Paper Co for wrapping paper–see some beautiful options below–just click on any of them for more information)

Steps to Make a DIY Gift Bag:

1) Roll out some of your wrapping paper and place the oddly shaped item that you want to wrap on top of it. Make sure you use enough wrapping paper to cover the item. Cut your wrapping paper to size.

2) Place your paper face down on your table. Fold the right and left sides in until they meet in the middle and overlap some. Tape the seam.

3) Fold the bottom of the wrapping paper up to create the bottom of the bag.

4) This is the trickiest step in how to make a gift bag, but I promise it’s easy after you do it once! Separate the two pieces of wrapping paper and flatten out the corners to create a diamond shape.

5) Fold the top and bottom corners in toward the middle of the diamond. Tape in place.

6) Open your bag. Then fold the top of the bag over to the backside. Use your hole punch to punch holes for the ribbon of your choosing.

8) Attach a gift tag, tie a bow, and you are DONE! Now you know how to make a gift bag from wrapping paper! How cute are these DIY gift bags?

What do you think? Now that you know how to make a gift bag, will you ever buy gift bags again?! I don’t think I will. If you want to save this tutorial for later, be sure to pin it! Looking for gifts to wrap and need great ideas? Check out some of our favorite gift guides: 26 Clever and Creative Gifts for Makers, Fabulous Gift Ideas for Grandparents & Parents, and 23 Unique Housewarming Gifts.

Some gifts—whether large and skiwampus, a grouping of several smaller gifts, or just something you don’t feel like wrapping—beg to be tossed in a gift bag. You stuff in a handful of tissue paper, and call it good. But gift bags can be a little over done, a little bad for the environment, and let’s face it—not that fun to open.

Here are gorgeous ideas for how to wrap odd shaped gifts. These ideas will not only get you thinking outside the bag, they may just fill your inner-environmentalist with a tiny sense of virtue.

MASON JARS

If you’ve been on Pinterest at all, you’ll know filling a Ball jar with cute little items has been all the rage for quite some time. And chances are, you have have one or two of the eco-friendly jars leftover from the last time someone gave you homemade jam. Fill your jar with the gift you’re giving, and tie a big red ribbon around it. And remember, Mason jar gifts don’t need to be limited to food. Take a look around the internet for new ideas. My favorites: a sewing kit in a jar, and a spa in a jar.

BASKETS

Let’s not forget about those. It may not be the 80’s anymore, but baskets are still a great way to package a gift. Think modern & sleek or vintage & meaningful, not country kitchen.

FABRIC WRAP

Wrapping gifts with fabric is probably one of the easiest ways to wrap just about anything.

Follow Ashley Weeks Cart’s instructions for wrapping a small gift in a decorated kitchen flour sack. Not only is the towel lovely, but it can be used later in the kitchen.

If you’d like a more brightly colored approach, these Bobo Wraps are scarves made especially for wrapping gifts.

What’s the most creative way you’ve seen someone wrap an odd-shaped gift?

Last updated on December 17, 2019

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Maybe you want to save money on wrapping paper this year, or perhaps you just like to give gifts that look charming and rustic and old-fashioned. Whatever the case, this brown paper gift wrap idea is stunning, and you won’t have to spend a dime!

I always have paper bags on hand because we craft with them often in my daycare, so I often use them to wrap some of our Christmas gifts each year.

Wrapping a gift in a grown paper bag is a great way to give a gift a charming, old-time Christmas look and an excellent way to save money. I mean, the price of store bought gift wrap can be ridiculous, and you just end up throwing it in the garbage.

Because a gift wrapped in brown paper can look a little boring, I like to add pinecones and ribbon and greenery from the garden, or sprigs of artificial flowers, to make them really beautiful.

If you don’t have paper bags, you can use the brown paper filler that Amazon uses to stuff their boxes with when you order stuff.

Goodness knows, I accumulate a lot of that in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

I LOVE that brown paper. We use it for paper mache, group art projects, protecting the table when we’re crafting etc.

Ok… back to wrapping our presents.

To wrap a gift in a brown paper bag, I use:

• brown paper bag or craft paper
• wide fabric ribbon or raffia
• pinecones
• sprigs from our spruce tree
• assorted greenery from the garden: boxwood, holly, euonymus, etc.
• small artificial flowers
• glue gun
• tape
• sprigs of spruce, boxwood, holly, euonymus etc.

Wrapping the gifts:

Cut your paper bag open and trim the bottom off so you’re dealing with a flat piece of brown paper. If your paper bag is really wrinkly, you can iron the creases out with an iron set on low heat.

Wrap your gift as you would with normal wrapping paper, and then wrap your ribbon around the gift, criss-crossing at the top, and secure the ends underneath the package with tape or a glue gun.

Arrange a pinecone or two and some sprigs of greenery and blossoms on top of your gift, and play around with them until you come up with an arrangement you like.

Then, glue it all in place with a glue gun.

Add a handmade gift tag and you have an inexpensive wrap job that looks great!

Bet you never thought a package in brown paper wrapping could look this pretty!

A lover of arts and crafts, Shasta Matova enjoys making artistic, applique, pieced, traditional, miniature, modern, and crazy quilts.

Lots of different ways to wrap a quilt to give as a gift

How to Present a Quilt as a Gift

You’ve made a beautiful quilt for a loved one and it is now time to present it as a gift. You are finished with the painstaking work of choosing the right combination of colors and patterns in the fabric.You’ve chosen a pattern that is attractive and fits well with the fabric and the recipient. You cut and sewed, sometimes staying up late to finish on time, and have the aches and pains in your back and shoulders to prove it. Then you either sandwiched and quilted it, or found the right person to quilt it for you.

Now you are ready to present it to your loved one. How do you give your quilt as a gift to someone so you can value it as much as you do?

It is easy to be humble and just toss the quilt to the recipient, and say “Here, I made this for you.” After all, a quilt is big and bulky and it is hard to fit in a gift bag. It would take a lot of wrapping paper to wrap. It might be tempting to throw it in the only bag that is big enough – a garbage bag.

Unfortunately, if the recipient does not understand the true value of the quilt and the painstaking effort you have put into it, the quilt might be used for a dog bed, under the car to change the oil, to protect furniture during a move, or as a diaper changing pad.

Part of the joy of getting a gift is the anticipation and unwrapping. A properly wrapped gift provides anticipation to the recipient. It shows both your loved one and your quilt the proper respect they both deserve.

How to give a quilt as a gift

Rolling the quilt and wrapping it with a ribbon will show the fabric, but the quilt pattern will likely still be a mystery.

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Placing the quilt in a box with pretty paper is a standard way to present a gift. Even a big quilt can be wrapped in a big box.

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Hiding the quilt in another gift such as luggage, or a hope chest, is a great way to add a surprise element.

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Accessories such as pillow cases, tablecloths, and curtains can be used to wrap and hide the quilt. Be sure to iron the pillowcase before using it.

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If you treat your quilt like trash, so will the recipient.

Introduction: Giftwrapping With a Brown Paper Grocery Bag

Save money, entertain the kids, and recycle a common item by using a brown paper bag to create unique wrapping paper.

Step 1: Supplies

Gather the following:

• 1 paper grocery bag
• scissors
• clear tape
• crayons, markers, etc
• gift to be wrapped (pictured is the dutch oven for my mother’s birthday)
• optional: children to do the decorating (this adds to the cuteness, especially for relatives of said children)

Step 2: Cut Bag to Form One Flat Piece

Find the seam on the back of the bag and cut along it until you reach the bottom fold.

Turn and cut around the bottom to remove the folded and glued portion; set aside or discard (i was glad i saved mine. see step 4)

Step 3: Wrap the Gift

Place the gift in the center of the paper: printed side of the paper up, top side of the gift down.

Fold up ends to cover and tape down.

Fold loose sides of paper to cover the sides of the gift; tape. Turn and repeat on the opposite end.

Step 4: Patch Up Gaps

Sometimes your gift is too large for one shopping bag. Feel free to tape together two or more bags at step 2 to make a larger piece.

If you have a small gap, use the leftovers from the bottom of the shopping bag in Step 2.

Tear carefully to unfold and remove excess layers of paper and glue. Cut the needed amount and tape down; small loops of clear tape will help disguise the patch.

My four-year-old even invented a use for this little pocket–to hold a secret note for Nana!

Step 5: Decorate

This is the fun part. Decorate as desired.

I let the kids go crazy with crayons. They chose to portray the upcoming party scene.

Step 6: Optional: Decorate With Scraps

If you have any leftover paper, feel free to decorate with it! The final result looks nicer than it sounds.

I repeated step 2 and then cut the paper lengthwise to make a banner. I cut small squares of the second half for coasters. Be creative and you suddenly have a brown-paper themed party!

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11 Discussions

i do this all the time! i also use newspapers or old underclothes!

You can also, re-cycle your own paper, and add some natural tint into the mix, it makes beautifull color papers, and also, is very entertaining for the kids.
Remember they allways appreciate a way to get all messy and dirty. XD
In addition, you can make the papers, and ones they are finished, give it to the kids, so they make their own designs of cutted paper.. some cutted paper, some glue, and voilá.. the wraping could never be more fun.

ow. and remember: All the paper that it’s left, you can allways re-re-cycle it! _

I always thought wrapping gift is a waste of paper, but this is so much better. By the way your children are very cute too.

Reply 12 years ago on Introduction

Thank you! I’m sure my own drawings on the paper wouldn’t have been as special to the recipient. 😛

*cough*freebrownpaperathomedepotorlowesiforgotwhichone*cough* I do this all the time. Great job!

Reply 12 years ago on Introduction

Thanks! Any paper is good, so long as it’s free paper. 😀

Reply 12 years ago on Introduction

Use to use the funny papers from Sunday papers as a kid still do on some friends presents . works well like a paper bag . good reuse

I did this when I was a kids too. Great idea, can you still get paper bags though? They are also good for wrapping packages for the mail.

Reply 12 years ago on Introduction

Most smaller locally-owned grocery stores still give you the option (at least in the midwest).

Have you ever wanted to put together a beautifully wrapped gift basket but just didn’t know how to wrap it or where to even start?

Maybe it’s your first time making a gift basket? It can be overwhelming especially when we really want it to look amazing, right?

Well in this post we’re going to show you, step by step, how easy it can be wrap up a gift basket like a pro!

Step #1 – Your Supplies

To create a good gift basket you’re going to need some basic supplies: a gift box with removable lid, clear cello basket bag (instead of the cello wrap on a roll), newsprint packing paper, some tinsel cord, a pull bow and some colored basket shred.

Step #2 -Your Container

The container that you chose for your gift basket is very important. It needs to be sturdy, attractive and easy to work with.

For this gift basket, instead of using a boring wicker basket (as is so typical for gift baskets!) we decided to use one of our 2 piece gift boxes that measures 7″x7″x4″. These boxes are quite rigid and not only make great gift basket containers but they’re also reusable as storage boxes after.

TIP: You can either place the lid under the box or behind it. We chose to go with the lid behind for this example.

Step #3 – Your Base

For a good base, we like to use unprinted newsprint packing paper. The newsprint is stiff, inexpensive and helps to fill the bottom of your container so you use less of the colorful basket shred.

The packing paper also helps to keep heavy things (like jars and bottles) in place so they don’t get damaged and prevents them from sinking down to the bottom of the box (you want to see the products!)

TIP: Don’t use actual newspaper! The ink comes off and can mess up the inside of your container as well as the contents inside your gift basket.

Step #4 – Your Filler

Once you’ve got your newsprint packing paper in place, sprinkle some colorful basket shred on top. The color choice is yours but we usually recommend using a complimentary color (that matches the ribbon or bow) or a neutral color so your products stand out.

TIP: Try to stick with just 1 color for your filler. Combining 2 or more colors can be distracting and take away focus from the products in the gift basket.

Step #5 Your Products

When placing your products in the gift basket, keep in mind a few things:

• How is your basket going to be viewed? Just from the front or all the way around? In our sample gift basket, we decided to make the basket viewed just from the front, which is why we put the lid at the back of the box. You then want to “layer” products smallest to largest, from front to back (this way, small items can lean against the tall items in the back)

• If your gift basket is to be viewed all around, you would then put your lid under the box with the taller products in the center and the smaller items around the edge.

TIP: Consider the shapes and sizes of the products when you’re purchasing them. Try to vary them as much as possible which will make it easier to fit into the gift basket.

Step #6 – Your Basket Bag

Once you’ve placed all your products in the box, it’s time to put the box into a clear cello basket bag. These bags make wrapping up a gift basket quick and easy! Though not all baskets or containers will fit into a preformed basket bag, if yours can then do use one as they are much easier to then the traditional cello wrap on a roll.

Secure the top of the cello basket bag with a length of tinsel cord or twine. We usually like to tie at the top of your tallest item in the gift basket. This helps keep everything secure inside and the cello wrap looking nice and crisp (and not looking like someone sat on it!!)

TIP: Basket bags aren’t just for gift baskets! You can use them for hard to wrap items such as blankets, sleeping bags, pillows, stuffies and more.

Step #7 – Your Corners

You’ll notice in the previous photo in Step #6 that the corners of the basket bag are sticking out on the sides of the box.

You MUST tape those under the box, yes, it’s a MUST! It’s the quickest way to make an average looking basket look amazing!

It also helps keep all those products in their place. The last thing you want to do, after all this effort, is give a gift basket that looks like it’s been rolling around in your car trunk!

TIP: Use clear tape instead of frosted tape…it looks so much better!

Step # 8 – Your Bow

Ok now you’re almost done, you just need a bow for that finishing touch! The bow is an important part of the overall presentation of the gift basket so it needs to look really good.

Above, we’ve shown an example of a black pull bow (top photo) which is easy to use especially if you’re not good with tying bows. In the bottom photo, we used a custom printed satin ribbon bow, which is hand tied.

Here’s a super easy tutorial on how to make these perfect bows. These look amazing, especially on corporate or special event gift baskets.

So, there you have it. Simply follow these 8 easy steps and you’ll become a gift basket making pro in no time!

Looking for more gift basket making ideas? Click here to learn how to put together an awesome wine gift basket!

You found the perfect Christmas gift for your bestie, and are so excited to see the reaction on her face when she opens it up. The only problem is, you may have gotten a tad too excited and left the store without getting wrapping paper. Oops! If you’re feeling too lazy to turn around and go back, don’t worry, because we have you covered — literally. If you’re wondering exactly how to wrap a gift without wrapping paper, put your creative cap on and consider using something you already have in your apartment.

You don’t have to be a DIY guru to master these wrapping skills. These eight tutorials are super easy to follow, and they don’t use any wrapping paper whatsoever. Some of these techniques are also great for those oddly shaped presents you bought that would just be a total nightmare to wrap with paper. These methods also work if you bought all of your gifts online and don’t want to brave the crowds at the store to purchase wrapping supplies. No stress at all. Be the lazy queen you are, and just take a look around your apartment at what you can use.

Your friends will be so impressed by your creative wrapping job, they’ll think it’s professional. You’ll be known as the genius who wrapped her gifts perfectly. Move over, paper, we don’t need you this holiday season, because we’ve got everything all wrapped up.

1. Foil It Up

There are a few smart wrapping ideas in this video — for example, using maps or a scarf — but the foil idea is super fun. Since foil is shiny, your present will stand out from the rest under the tree. This idea also doesn’t require tape, so that’s another thing you won’t have to stress TFO about.

2. Give Your Newspaper A Second Life

You don’t need store-bought wrapping paper to wrap your gift in paper. Get thrifty by reusing that old newspaper you were going to recycle anyway. If you have fun markers, pens, and stencils, you can color on the paper to create a whimsical design.

3. Construction Paper With A Bow

If you happen to have some colorful construction paper at home, you can follow this tutorial to wrap up your gift. You can even top it off with a cute bow made out of paper, which comes in handy if you also forgot to stock up on ribbon at the store. If you don’t have construction paper, any paper you have around the house will get the job done just as perfectly.

4. Create A Cool Gift Box Out Of A Cereal Box

This is for all of the cereal lovers out there who have an empty box or two lying around. You don’t even need tape for this tutorial. Your friends will be super impressed that you made your own gift box out of a cereal box, and you’ll start a trend.

5. Wrap It Up With A Scarf

If you have a scarf that you’ve been meaning to donate, you can instead use it to wrap up your gift. Or, if you’re gifting your friend a scarf plus another gift for Christmas, you can use the scarf to wrap the other. It’s as simple as that, and your gift instantly becomes two gifts in one.

6. A Brown Paper Bag

Go green this Christmas, and use recyclable paper that you have in your home. You can use one of those brown paper bags from the store by cutting it to make wrapping paper. You can even get creative with the brown paper by painting on a design or coloring it up with markers.

7. A Paper Cup

This is a great idea if you have some extra paper cups in your kitchen. You can also snag a few cups from your office’s break room — we won’t tattletale. This is the perfect option for the smaller gifts on your list that would be a waste to buy a whole roll of wrapping paper for, anyway.

8. Wrap It Up With A Map

Using an old map for paper is a cool idea, especially for the friend who is passionate about traveling. If you live in a place like NYC, you can use a subway map. This tutorial also mentions using a poster from a magazine if your friend is into that.

Wrapping paper is done. It’s unrecyclable, gaudy, expensive, and it turns your living room into a sea of single-use trash. Not only that, but wrapping a book turns it into a really boring rectangle of blah, no matter how loud the pattern is. Today I’m going to show you how to wrap a book properly without wrestling with tape and rolls.

Furushiki, the Japanese Art of Cloth Wrapping

Furushiki is the next big holiday thing. Instead of ripping a bunch of paper up and making ugly trash, this beautiful process of folding a precious gift in soft, reusable fabric makes the entire gift-giving process meaningful. If you’re into saving the planet, then this is a great way to both wrap your gifts and have a planet-happy holiday. The fabric can even be part of the gift if you’re giving to like-minded or crafty people. You can even hand-print your own wrapping fabric if you want to be really extra.

A post shared by Emilie Sauvée (@emilie_daoulagad_gwer) on Oct 3, 2019 at 12:00pm PDT

Shirts

Let’s say that you love the idea of furushiki but you just know that your friends are going to throw out that nice cloth—or worse, try to give it back to you. Thwart those wasteful instincts and make the wrapping part of the gift! You could probably use a sweater for a hardcover and a large-ish tee shirt for a trade or mass market paperback. Absent long arms, consider the ever-useful scarf. Speaking of which…

Scarves

You could totally wrap a book in a scarf. Same principle as above, but for someone who prefers to wrap a warm or decorative sash around their neck and face. Plus, while a book is a low to mid-range expensive gift whose real value is in the message it communicates about how well you know the giftee’s tastes, you can get damn classy with scarves. Amp up that financial statement with silk if you need to!

Cute Bags

It’s true that cloth wrapping can be a little much for some folks. Bags are an easy-to-locate, east-to-customize, reusable alternative that’s a little more mainstream, but still breaks up the rigid lines of the obvious book covered with paper. There’s an extra air of mystery to bags and tissue paper can get quite fancy indeed. Choose recyclable and make those bags pretty!

Old Pages

Let me level with you. As a librarian. There are many, many books in this world that get turned into pulp.

It’s a hard but true fact: new books are always coming out and old books usually don’t get reread much. Reference books like encyclopedias and giant dictionaries are excellent examples. So instead of donating those books you’re done with to the library (because I assure you that we toss most of the donations we receive,) use one or two as wrapping paper! Tear out those pages and wrap up your book in them. You can even make pretty flowers to top the gift off and make it fun.

A post shared by Natasha Alipour Faridani (@natashaafphoto) on Dec 17, 2018 at 6:49am PST

It’s the age of GPS. Odds are good that you have some old maps lying around that you haven’t used in honest to goodness years. Atlases and street maps abound in homes where the digital revolution rolled in so fast that nobody ever thought to dump resources that had become obsolete. Lucky you, they’re now colorful, classy wrapping paper that will give your gifting that old timey flair. A book can take you places! Here’s a map!

Brown Paper and Innovation

Never underestimate the potential of brown paper bags as wrapping. Plain though they may be, they are also sturdy enough to support all kinds of creativity. You can dip half of your wrapped book in colorful paint, for example. You can paint glue on it and then dredge it in confetti or glitter. You can jazz it up with washi tape, use a stencil to add a custom design, or even attach festive doo-dads, like pinecones and kids’ art projects. Some grocery stores, like Trader Joe’s, also use paper bags with cool art on them.

Newspapers

Back before our cushy modern era, people wrapped gifts in newspaper all the time. Particularly popular was the wrapping of children’s birthday gifts in the colorful Sunday funnies. This is still a very viable idea! It’s also a great way to support your friendly neighborhood journalist and save the Earth.

Looking for something simple? Check out our post about engineering the perfect classic paper bag book cover! If you’re unconvinced and still want to wrap traditionally, let us hook you up with some literary wrapping paper.

Introduction: How to Make a Gift Bag Attractive

Making a gift bag look good is really simple. This is the perfect way to wrap a gift if you are incapable of handling wrapping paper. This is how to cheat and make it look like you are really good at wrapping presents!

Al you need is a gift bag, and some tissue paper that matches, preferable 2 different colors.

Step 1:

First, chose your tissue paper. For my bag I could have gone with red, green, or white. Maybe something with some sparkle or a something shiny to make it look really attractive? I chose to keep it simple and went with red and green.

For a simple look:
Lay one sheet out

For a more complex look:
Lay one sheet out, then lay another sheet in a different color on top. Position it so the corners don’t match up.

Step 2:

No matter if you are going the simple route or the complex route, you will stick your fist underneath the wrapping paper. Then gently push your finger into your fist. After that, give it a light shake. It should look something like the second picture.

Step 3:

Now take your “wad” of paper and gently set it in the bag. I find that for small to medium sized bags 3 wads is perfect. The bigger the bag, the more wads you may need. The bag shown has 3 wads. 2 red and 1 green! I hope this helps with your gift wrapping!

A bottle of wine is the classic gift for a host or hostess, and something thoughtfully chosen says you care about the people you are visiting. Make it even more special by taking the time to wrap it carefully. Below are some ideas for creatively gifting and wrapping a wine bottle, whether it’s a last-minute gift or a special vintage you’ve chosen just for the recipient.

For Those Last-Minute Gifts

Maybe you were invited to a dinner party at the last minute, or maybe you’ve known about it for a while but have neglected to plan ahead. Either way, if you’re pulling a bottle from your own collection to give as a gift, there are some simple things you can do to make a beautiful presentation just by using things you already have around the house.

1. Bag It

Even if you don’t have a wine gift bag, you probably have a bag that can be used to stow that bottle of wine festively. A brown paper lunch sack is ideal, but you can also try digging through your wrapping paper collection for an old gift bag or cutting down a paper grocery bag. Tuck a few pieces of tissue paper inside and cinch it with a ribbon.

2. Wrap It

There are a number of things you can use to wrap a wine bottle, and it’s fast and easy. Wrapping paper is the obvious choice, but consider craft paper, parchment paper, newspaper, or even packing paper. Cut the paper about 10″ longer than your bottle and wide enough to wrap around it.

If the paper is thin, you might want to wrap it a couple of times. Roll the bottle in the paper, leaving about 2″ at the bottom of the bottle. Use a piece of tape at the seam, and then accordion the overhang over the bottom of the bottle, taping a few times to keep it sturdy. At the top of the bottle, you can gather the extra paper with ribbon or twine. For a sleeker presentation, fold the corners in and down, and wrap a wide ribbon lengthwise around the bottle.

3. Tag It

Let the wine shine by simply tying a tag around the neck. Use your printer to make a pretty personalized tag, or create one freehand if you are confident in your drawing skills. You could also make a new label for the bottle, personalized with your name and the name of the recipient. There are lots of templates online that do the work for you. With the right tag or label, no one will know that you didn’t plan ahead.

For a Thoughtful Presentation

If you’ve put a lot of thought into the wine gift you are giving, or if you want to make it really special, try one of the following ideas to convey the thought or meaning behind what you are giving.

4. Personalized Bags

If you’re planning on giving a lot of wine gifts during the holidays, or if you’ve been perfecting your own wine-making, it might be worth it to order some custom bags with a seasonal greeting and your name printed on them. These don’t have to be expensive to make quite an impression.

5. Wine Boxes

A wine box tells the recipient that the bottle of wine you are giving them is really something special. It also serves as a gentle reminder that this isn’t the wine to reach for when everyone’s tipsy and you decide to open just one more bottle.

• For a wonderful wedding present, a bottle of wine that needs to age for about five years presented in a special box to be opened on the fifth anniversary will be cherished and remembered by the happy couple.
• For a meaningful gift at any number of holiday parties that you’re invited to, why not bring a special bottle of wine or bubbly in a festive box for the new year?

6. Accessorize It

Maybe you’ve found the perfect bag at your favorite wine store, or you’re keeping it simple with craft paper. You can still knock it out of the park by tying a thoughtful accessory to the neck of the wine bottle. Make it wine-related or just tie something fun and festive on it. Let the ideas below spark your imagination.

• A decorative stopper, aerator or pourer in a small tulle bag is thoughtful and charming.
• Buy or make mulling spices and attach them to an appropriate bottle of wine, along with instructions.
• Acrylic wine glasses are a great gift for someone who likes to camp or picnic. Cross the stems, tie them together, and attach them to the neck of your bottle like a bouquet.
• For a really special vintage, include a wine candle wick so the bottle can be turned into a beautiful oil lamp afterwards.

If You’re Feeling Crafty

If adding a handmade touch appeals to you, try getting creative by dressing it up with one of the ideas below.

7. Sweater Weather

Especially fun as winter weather sets in, wrapping a wine bottle in the sleeve of a sweater is a cozy and festive touch. If you sew, you can cut up an old sweater and sew something that fits perfectly. If you don’t sew, use the sleeve. Cut it about 3″ longer than it needs to be, turn it inside out, and gather the cut end, tying it tightly with a piece of twine or thread. Turn it right-side-out again and use the cuff at the cork end, cinching it with a ribbon or piece of yarn.

If you knit or crochet, you can have even more fun with this. Try knitting tiny little hats and scarves to dress your bottles in. This charming touch will please everyone. You might even find yourself dressing up all your wine bottles for the winter.

8. Dress It Up

Similar to the sweater sleeve, the sleeve and cuff of a button-down shirt is another fun way to present a bottle. Use a funny tie from the thrift store or double the gift by giving the recipient a tie he might actually wear. It would make a great groomsman gift, too!

A bottle of wine, when thoughtfully chosen, is always appreciated. When you make it extra-special by using one of the ideas above for gifting and wrapping a wine bottle, it becomes a memorable gift and makes a lasting impression on the recipient.

About Our Team

Erin is a native Austinite that loves writing, wikipedia, online window-shopping for home goods, and riding on airplanes. When not writing articles at work, you can probably find her winding down with a glass of wine, a book, and her two favorite neurotic cats.

Below are videos and instructions for how to wrap presents that are unusually shaped, including gift baskets, so you can present the gift to the recipient beautifully, despite its shape.

Not all the gifts you want to give to your friends and family can fit neatly inside a box.

But, just because you don’t always have a square or rectangular object to wrap doesn’t mean you can’t make it a beautifully presented gift for your intended recipient.

First, get creative with what kind of containers you could put your gift in. Besides gift boxes, there are many other household objects that might work, like toilet paper or paper towel rolls, old cereal boxes, oatmeal canisters, plastic fruit boxes, etc.

Second, there is the old standby of placing awkwardly shaped items into gift bags. You can make gift bags very pretty too, by placing festive tissue paper inside the bag, brimming over the top.

However, if you really want to wrap your item here are several videos below that can show you how to wrap presents not matter what their shape.

How To Wrap Presents With Awkward Shapes

Below is a video demonstrating a general technique for wrapping any type of awkward shaped gift making basically a cinched up bag that is fanned out at the top.

The video suggests using homemade wrapping paper, but you can in my experience use store bought paper too. You just need to be very careful not to fold and crease it until you get it into the shape you want, or it looks a bit crinkly.

Also, this is not mentioned in this video, but if you have a present that has sharp edges these edges may tear through the paper. You can avoid this by using this same technique shown in the video, but using fabric instead of paper to wrap the present.

For more details see this video on how to wrap a gift, which presents this suggestion toward the end of the video.

How To Wrap Christmas Presents And Other Presents That Are Cylindrical

I know I’ve needed to wrap a bottle or a candle before, and it didn’t turn out so well. That is because I tried to use the general techniques above, from the first video.

Here’s a better video teaching you how to wrap these cylindrical objects so you can still sit them down easily when you are done wrapping them, and they will stay standing up.

How To Wrap Gift Baskets

Everyone has seen those beautiful gift baskets wrapped in cellophane, but it can be difficult to wrap one yourself.

The key is to get a piece of cellophane that is big enough to be able to bunch at the top after it is wrapped all the way around the gift basket. If the piece is not big enough it just won’t work or look right.

The video below shows how to use cellophane to wrap the basket, and also how to tie it off with a pretty ribbon. I have personally found, since I don’t do it very often, that it is easier to have two people when doing this process, one to hold the cellophane and another to tie the ribbon, although this woman in the video is coordinated enough to do both at once.

If your presents are more squarely shaped, you may enjoy this video on how to wrap a gift, which gives basic tips for wrapping standard shaped presents.

In addition, check out these video tutorials for how to make a bow for your presents, to give your gifts a nice personal touch.

This step-by-step guide will ensure your Christmas gifts look better than ever.

You may think that picking out the perfect Christmas presents is the hardest part of the holiday season. That is, until you get out all your wrapping paper and ribbon and then remember you don’t know how to wrap a gift—properly, at least. To avoid the process, some resort to gift baskets, Mason jars, or gift bags. Although these are all tried-and-true ways to give a present that look pretty, learning how to wrap a gift is actually super easy!

To learn how to wrap a gift like a professional, we tapped Macy’s gift wrapping expert, Belle Wesel, for her knowledge. Follow Belle’s simple steps and you’ll be on your way to wrapping anything from small gifts to larger Christmas presents. Because practice makes perfect, we suggest you start learning how to wrap a gift right now. The reason? Come Christmastime, you won’t have to worry about wrapping presents (and you’ll be able to quickly wrap all of those last-minute gifts too!).

Once you learn how to wrap a gift, we encourage you to get creative with gift wrapping ideas by turning your boxes into snowmen, accenting them with tiny Christmas trees, or using unique DIY gift tags. What’s more, these gift-wrapping tips extending beyond the holiday season. Now, wrapping birthday and anniversary presents will be a breeze. So grab your favorite holiday paper, ribbon, and tape, and start learning how to wrap a gift, because Christmas will be here before you know it!

To add some personality to your package, we suggest getting creative with your ribbon choice. You can even curl traditional ribbon to make the look a little more fun.

It’s so much easier to wrap something square or rectangular. Do yourself a favor and pack your gift into a box. Taping it shut is optional!

The cardinal rule for choosing wrapping paper? The thicker, the better. To facilitate the trimming process, look for a roll with a grid pattern on the back.

Dealing with hand cramps before Christmas? A sharp pair of scissors with a comfortable handle is key when you have a pile of gifts to tackle.

Here’s our trick from the pros: Double-sided tape is your secret weapon for a neat seam. Stock up on a bulk package of rolls now—you’ll use them all before December 25.

Last Updated: May 22, 2017

All > DIY > How To Make A Gift Bag Out Of Wrapping Paper In 4 Easy Steps

Scrambling to wrap a gift but don’t have a bag or a box? No problem! You can learn how to make a gift bag out of wrapping paper in four simple steps. You probably even have the materials you need lying around the house. Let’s get started!

What you’ll need:

• Wrapping paper
• Tape
• Scissors
• Hole puncher (optional)
• Ribbon (optional)

Step 1: Measure the width of your gift. Once you know how much paper you need, fold the wrapping paper in half. Seal with tape and fold the bottom end up.

Step 2: Open the bottom end so the inside of the paper is revealed. Fold the left and right edges in, then fold the top and bottom in as well. Use tape to seal all of the folds.

Step 3: Flip the bag and open. Place your gift in and fold the top over.

Step 4: Punch holes and insert your ribbon to seal.

Gift Bag Wrapping Tips

To make sure that the gift bag you create holds up, keep these things in mind.

• Medium weight wrapping paper is ideal because it’s sturdy, but not difficult to fold.
• Your bag should be twice as tall as it is wide.
• These gift bags are not recommended for items that are extremely tall and/or heavy.
• You can always add a piece of cardboard to the bottom of the bag to make it more sturdy.
• If something feels flimsy, add more tape!

Gift Bag Decorating Ideas

Now that you’ve learned how to make a gift bag out of wrapping paper, it’s time to decorate it! You can use fun ribbon, washi tape, letters, gift tags, candy, stickers and even a pretty photo.

Gift-giving is a thoughtful, heart-warming tradition that should never feel too complicated. With this simple gift wrapping idea, you’ll want to buy gifts for everyone! Check out our personalized gifts for that extra special touch – whether it be a special birthday, anniversary or just because you want to show your love, there are options for any occasion.

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5. How to Make Your Own Bridal Bouquets

Sometimes the perfect gift for a bridal shower is one that seems impossible to wrap. Something like a table lamp, hat tree or ironing board that is large and of a difficult shape will not fit into a traditional bridal shower gift bag. Attempting to wrap large gifts with wrapping paper may seem like a waste and will be difficult to do well if the gift is not in a box. Wrapping large gifts requires some creativity and a willingness to use alternative materials and methods.

Gift-Wrap Materials

Wrap the gift loosely in many sheets of tissue paper. Although tissue paper is prone to tearing, it is much easier to manipulate than heavy wrapping paper when wrapping delicate parts such as a lampshade. In addition, tissue paper is inexpensive, so you can go through a whole package without spending much.

Wrap the large gift in white tulle. Although you will be able to see through the tulle, it is a familiar bridal material and will fit in well at a bridal shower. Using many layers of tulle or wrapping the gift loosely in tissue paper and then in tulle will help make the present a surprise. Tulle is an ideal gift-wrap material because it is inexpensive and is very strong.

Put the gift in a large bag. Although gift bags may not be large enough, there are many other types of bags that will work as gift-wrapping material. Colored plastic shopping bags or simple white trash bags can conceal the gift and serve as a canvas for further embellishments. Another option is to purchase or sew a large fabric bag to hold the gift.

Add Embellishments

Tie an elegant ribbon around the gift. Even if the gift-wrap material is not luxurious, a beautiful ribbon will divert attention away from the wrapping. Velvet ribbon, shimmer ribbon or ribbon in the bride’s colors could be used as the focal point of the gift.

Include something special in the ribbon. A creative idea for a kitchen-related gift is to put a kitchen utensil in the bow. For example, wrap ribbon around and through a pair of salad tongs to make a bow-shaped decoration.

Incorporate fresh or silk flowers into the gift wrapping. Use one large flower, such as a hydrangea, as a focal point, or just attach a row of daisies to the ribbon.

Using gift bags to wrap gifts is less time-consuming than conventional gift wrappers. There is no need to do a lot of measuring, cutting and taping. Using gift bags is also environmentally friendlier than paper gift wrappers because they are reusable. These reasons are why many people prefer using them to wrap gifts. Gift bags come in different designs and sizes. There are gift bags made for birthdays, weddings, graduations, baptisms and many more. They also come in different materials, such as paper or fabric.

Step 1

Get a gift bag, preferably double or triple the size of the gift.

Step 2

Lay the tissue papers down on top of a flat surface with the design facing down. Arrange the tissue papers on top of each other so that they overlap.

Step 3

Wrap the gift with the tissue papers. Place the gift at the center of the tissue papers, lift all corners of the tissue papers up, put them together and scrunch them slightly to the center.

Step 4

Place the tissue papers with gift inside the gift bag. Make sure the top portions of the tissue papers are showing for a more attractive and festive appearance. Adjust the tissue papers neatly as needed.

Step 5

Tie the two handles of the gift bag with ribbons. Use curly ribbons or grosgrain ribbons achieve a fuller, more finished effect.

Step 6

Sign the gift tag and attach it to the handle of the gift bag or to one side of the gift bag using adhesive tape. You may also choose to insert a greeting card inside the gift bag instead of the smaller gift tag.

Step 7

Add embellishments to decorate your gift bag. Choose trinkets, small bells, craft items or silk flowers to adorn the gift bag.

Plush toys are probably the most near perfect gift you can find—until you go to wrap it. Suddenly this almost perfect gift becomes a pile of ripped wrap and a crazy test of your patience. The good news is that it is possible to wrap a stuffed toy and have it look stunning. Check out these five fun ways to wrap a plush toy (and keep your sanity in the process).

Wrap it in a Plastic Table Cloth

Plastic or vinyl table cloths actually make great wrapping material because they drape well, can cover any shape, and conceal the item well. As a bonus, after opening the gift, the table cloth can be used to keep the party area clean or spread on the floor, in the yard, or anywhere else for a nice place to sit and eat cake and ice cream.

The Tootsie Roll

If the stuffed animal has arms or legs that stick out, wrap them to the body with ribbon until the toy is long and slender. Then, place the toy on a layer of tissue paper (gift wrap layer on the outside) then roll it like a rolled candy. Gather the ends and tie them with ribbon. Fluff the ends for added pizzazz.

Gift Bag It

The ever popular gift bag is always a popular choice for wrapping a plush toy because it is fast, easy and looks great. In addition to adding festive tissue paper and ribbons, you can even cut a small window in the bag and cover it with clear cellophane so the recipient can see a glimpse of their new friend.

Balloon Wrap it

If you want your wrapping to be big and dramatic, try a balloon wrap. Balloon wraps are always an attention getter, but it takes special equipment to have it done. You can usually find balloon wrap vendors at the mall and at kiosks, or you can do it yourself with this awesome tutorial.

Cellophane Wrap It

Wrapping it in cellophane wrap is another way that celebrates it rather than conceals it. Take the toy and place it in an open topped box or basket, then place in the middle of a large sheet of cellophane. Pull up and gather the edges of the cellophane and then tie it with colorful ribbon.

Wrapping a plush toy doesn’t have to be difficult. With our line of cool and creative gift wraps, boxes, and supplies, you will never be scratching your head over a hard-to-wrap item.

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Gift Bag: Holly Green/Gold – Large

• Description
• Other Details

A fabric Gift Bag to carry your gift in style – gift wrap and bag in one.

Each gift bag has a drawstring closure, enabling you to conceal your gift. The re-usable message card pouch can be used for your message. To see how to use the drawstring closure click on ‘How to Wrap’

This is the large size – Height 40cm, width 48cm at base, and 40cm across top, please refer to the Size Guide tab for examples of gifts it will wrap.

The Gift Bag is available in 3 sizes and a range of patterns and colours.

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How to Wrap a Gift Basket With Cellophane. Wrap a homemade gift basket for any occasion like a professional. In just a few minutes a gift giver can dress up a gift basket using a complimentary color or design cellophane wrap. Choose a gift ribbon to complete the look and the basket is complete.

Size the cellophane. Unroll the cellophane and place the gift basket in the middle. Pull each end of the cellophane up around both sides of the basket. There’s an excess of about 5 to 6 inches of cellophane beyond the top of the basket. Cut with scissors.

Secure the sides of the wrap around the basket. Lift the cellophane up again around both side of the basket. Fold gently over the top of the basket, so that the cellophane stands firmly upright. Gather both sides of the gaping cellophane at the bottom of the basket to create one panel.

Secure the panel by taping horizontally on both sides to the cellophane wrap around the body of the basket. Repeat on the other end of the basket.

Straighten the appearance of the cellophane wrap in the front and back of the basket. Pull up the end of the cellophane on both sides of the basket, leaving no slack in the cellophane.

Roll the top right corner over once and secure with a piece of tape to the cellophane wrap on the back side of the basket. Repeat with the left corner.

Prepare the wrapping job for the finishing touches. Gather the cellophane at the top of the basket in a bunch.

Wrap clear tape 1 1/2 times around the base of the gathering. The gift basket is then ready for any final embellishments, such a ribbon.

Travel Tips

Get your gifts to where you’re going. (Photo: airplane image by Clarence Alford from Fotolia.com )

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• Rules for Carry-On Luggage Size

Traveling long distances with gifts is often a challenge, but that difficulty can be doubled when it comes to bringing gifts with you during air travel. In addition to the troubles of having to deal with gifts that might be fragile or oddly-shaped, airport security measures don’t mesh well with wrapping up a present to keep it secret. With careful planning and packing, however, you can get your gifts safely to their location and perhaps even have them ready to give upon arrival.

Items you will need

• Hard shell suitcase
• Foam packing peanuts
• Boxes
• Gift wrap
• Bubble wrap
• Rubber bands

Checked Luggage

Step 1

Use a hard shell suitcase, if possible. As bags are tossed about in transit, they often come into hard contact with hard surfaces or other bags. Soft or semi-hard suitcases do not usually provide proper protection of fragile gifts or delicate gift wrapping.

Step 2

Re-wrap the package as if you were going to ship it. After gift-wrapping the package, place it in a larger box filled with packing peanuts. This will protect both the gift itself and the wrapping, making it ready to be taken out and unwrapped by the recipient immediately upon your arrival.

Step 3

Surround the package with soft goods in your suitcase. Put a layer of clothing beneath the package and above it within the suitcase.

Step 4

Pack gift wrapping along with the gift. Your package will probably travel undisturbed in a checked suitcase, but if your luggage is selected to be searched by airport security, they may have to open the package, in which case, you’ll need to re-wrap upon arrival.

Carry-On

Step 1

Plan your carry-on luggage accordingly. You can carry on one piece of luggage and one personal item (such as a purse or briefcase). Pack lightly so that you can either carry the gift on its own or inside your piece of carry one luggage. Consult your airline’s website for information regarding their allowable dimensions of carry-on luggage, especially if your gift is large.

Step 2

Wrap the gift loosely in clear bubble wrap. Use wrap with the largest bubbles you can find (if you have any leftover electronics wrapping pillows, these are ideal) so that you can view the item through the wrap. Fasten it in place with rubber bands, rather than tape, so that you can easily remove the wrapping during security check.

Step 3

Carry the the wrapped gift in an easily accessible bag. Either store it in a compartment of your carry-on that’s easy to get to, or bring it in an open-topped bag (such as a gift bag).

• Carry all liquids or liquid food items in your checked luggage; it will not be allowed through security check as a carry-on.
• Check out the TSA’s list of prohibited carry-on items before deciding how to carry your gifts.

Disclosure

Leaf Group is a USA TODAY content partner providing general travel information. Its content is produced independently of USA TODAY.

by BuzzFeed DIY

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Jessica Probus is the editor of BuzzFeed DIY, the crafty, life-hacky corner of BuzzFeed Life. She is a big fan of doing things at the last minute AND making them by hand, which means the night before any holiday or event you can probably find her within arm’s reach of a hot glue gun.

As much as the holiday season seems to start earlier and earlier each year, there is still somehow never enough time to finish everything on your list. And with crazy shipping times and crowded stores, finding a thoughtful and cute gift at the eleventh hour can be a challenge. Enter: the gift card. While some might think a gift card is an impersonal or lazy choice, for the right person a gift card can be the perfect blend of personal (choosing the right store) and freeing (getting exactly what they want from it) — especially if you package it well. Fortunately, there are lots of inexpensive and cute ways to dress up a gift card (or cash) that can be done with materials you already have at home — or with instant downloads from the creative designers on Etsy.

One way to make a gift card more fun to receive is to make it harder to open. For this simple yarn ball project, all you need is an extra skein. Just tie one end of the yarn around the card and continue wrapping until you have a hefty ball. Then add a little tag to the other end of the strand with the instruction: Pull!

These adorable cassette-shaped boxes (Claudine Hellmuth, $5) are a cinch to assemble and can be downloaded instantly. Tip: Print on cardstock, if your machine can handle it, and inscribe with clever titles or track listings to tease the contents.

All you need for this cute concept is an animal figurine, some baker’s twine or ribbon and a small box. It’s a great way to present a folded-to-fit printable gift certificate — or perhaps the first clue of a holiday treasure hunt. For an extra festive touch, give the animals a coat of metallic paint first.

To make any gift or gift card shine, use this printable template to fold up a DIY diamond-shaped box (Printopus, $5.50). It’s equally appealing printed on solid-colored or glittery paper and includes both three-inch and four-inch-high designs.

For a low-effort, high-payoff presentation, roll up money or a gift certificate and put it inside a balloon before you blow it up; then use a felt-tipped paint pen to add the To/From or a special message on the outside. To make it even more fun (and difficult to clean up), sprinkle some confetti or glitter inside, too.

Have a gift card but no bag or wrapping? This easy-to-assemble pillow box is up to the task. Just get the instant download (PaperScissorsPop, $4) and print it out on regular white copy paper. Bonus: The download comes with four ombré shades, so you can color-code cards for everyone left on your list (and not have to open them all up again when you forget what’s inside).

Any toy store clerk can tell you: December 24 is not when you want to go in search of the year’s most sought-after kid gift. If you’re out of time (and ideas), a gift card or cash packaged in a fun way — say, buried in candy and concealed inside a tube of colorful wrapping paper that’s tied up with clear cellophane and twine — turns a potential letdown into a sweet surprise. Besides, what kid wouldn’t be thrilled to pick out his very own gift?

Printable bags shaped like cartoony woodland creatures are the ideal vessel for holiday party favors, snacks or a last-minute gift card (LittleLlamaShop, $5 for five designs). There’s a whole series of friendly forest-dwellers to choose from, including these adorable foxes and squirrels.

For the slightly more advanced crafter, these felt envelopes are a simple way to make a useful holder for gifts cards that can be repurposed later (to hold business cards, subway cards, etc.) All you need is a needle, some embroidery thread, and a couple colors of felt. See the full instructions here.

It’s time to retire the old toss-it-in-a-bag approach: These three-inch printable paper pyramid boxes (Bosque Graphic Design, $2.50), which come two colors to a set, are a much more unique way to package up something tiny. Top with a bow to further elevate the idea.

Photo credits: Lauren Zaser / BuzzFeed; header image by Claudine Hellmuth.