A beautifully wrapped present begins with a little attention to the shape inside. Folded fabric, a saved ribbon and a clear handwritten tag can make even a simple box feel special.
If you would like more of the wrapping to be used again, choose materials the recipient can easily keep. Start with what is already in your cupboard, then add one personal detail.
Choose fabric that suits the parcel
A clean scarf, tea towel or square of fabric works well around a sturdy box. Place the box in the centre, fold the fabric over neatly and tie the ends where there is enough length. Use a ribbon if tying the fabric would pull it too tightly.
Choose a piece large enough to cover the gift without straining corners. For an awkward shape, put the item in a reusable bag or a box first.
Make the outer layer part of the gift
A custom photo tote bag can hold a separately protected present while adding something useful for later. Its printed front can feature your chosen photo, pet portrait or artwork.
Select black or white and provide a clear image. Use tissue or suitable protective packing around delicate contents; the tote itself is an everyday bag, rather than protective packaging.
Tie on a decoration they can keep
A personalised snowflake ornament makes a present easy to identify by name. Fasten its ribbon loosely to the wrapping so it can be removed without damaging the gift or decoration.
Check the spelling in advance and let the ornament sit flat against the parcel. Keep other embellishments minimal so its openwork design is easy to see.
Use a small accessory as the finishing touch
A 3D printed name keyring is another option for a recipient who prefers a useful keepsake. Attach it to a ribbon around the parcel, with the keyring kept secure until opening.
Make the next use easy
Tell the recipient that the fabric and ribbon are theirs to keep. Avoid adhesive directly on fabric and use removable paper tags where possible. Fold spare ribbon and wrapping neatly as you go so it is ready for another celebration.
Reuse is most helpful when the materials stay in circulation. There is no need to buy a whole new wrapping collection to begin.
Add a named Christmas ornament to one carefully wrapped present and let that be the special detail.
