In a digital age, we are seemingly sending more e-cards then Christmas cards. But when it comes to presents, there is no other option than to wrap them in paper.
This year, the most popular trend is also the most eco-friendly as no-one likes non-recyclable gift wrap. Of course, a beautifully wrapped Christmas present does look fabulous under the tree and brings joy to your loved ones but after the gift is revealed, there is a lot of wastage!
To cut down on the sheer amount of paper which is being used, a holder of the Royal Warrant of Appointment to Her Majesty The Queen, high-end independent corporate gifting specialists, Veritas Gifts have complied their 7 most sustainable gift-wrapping ideas so you can make your presents eco-friendly this year.
Drawn On Ribbons
Ribbons and gift tags do make presents look extra special and give it that finished look, but have you ever thought that they will be thrown straight into the bin once they’ve been opened?
Luckily there is a more sustainable version for decoration. Simply buy some gold or silver sharpies and scribble on a fun bow. You would be surprised at how decorative and fun they look, and it will also save you money!
Old Newspapers
If you find yourself reading a lot of newspapers or have access to them then you would be surprised what great gift wrap it makes! The monochrome print looks great next to red and gold ribbon or green pine.
It also means that your gift will stand out the most under the tree and the newspaper will go straight into the recycling box.
Old Fabric
Do you have any old Christmas tablecloths from last year? Then think about wrapping your presents in them! It will look very vintage and unique amongst the other presents.
Just tie the knot as a bow or cut an extra bit of material to use as a makeshift ribbon. Also, if your recipient isn’t keen on keeping the fabric you can always get it back for extra use next year.
Recycled Brown Paper
Brown paper is a cheap option and has great potential to look the most impressive. You can use a stamp cutter to make the paper look more decorative and place some tissue paper under the stamps.
You can get recycled brown paper from your local Post Office for as little as £3.99 for 12 meters. Plus the brown paper looks great mixed with a fabric tie and makes for a really unique Christmas gift presentation.
Pages of old books
Yes really, there are books that can be recycled to create great wrapping paper. There are dozens of tutorials online which show you how exactly to turn a book page into great gift wrap.
Once the makeshift book wrap is ready, all you have to do is pop the gift in and close it with small wooden recyclable peg. It looks very effective and even better if your recipient is an avid book reader.
Mason Jars
Mason jars make great presentation for edible gifts and toiletries such as soap. They are a unique way to show that you have spent time and effort in wrapping the gift whilst also gifting the recipient with a reusable container they can use to fill with whatever they like.
If you like, then you can add some recycled tissue paper to complete the look or simply leave it plain and let the jar speak for itself.
Boxes
You shouldn’t underestimate the look of a box and if you do online shopping then you might have some lying around the house perfect for your gift.
Use these boxes to hold your gits in and decorate them in a unique manner with paint, fabric ribbons, twine and even biodegradable glitter. This is also a great way to disguise your present if you are trying to sway kids away from peeking before Christmas day!
