When purchasing a gift for someone, we put a lot of thought into it. However, when it comes to actually giving the gift, we tend to undermine it by simply throwing it in an everyday gift bag or wrapping it in ordinary paper. The wrapping of your gift should be treated as an extension of your gift. That is why it is time to take things up a notch! Think outside the box and add an extra touch of personality to your gift-wrapping session. Below are a few ideas to help generate your creatie juices!

Wrapping Paper:

Selecting wrapping paper can be difficult. With a vast array of options, it’s easy to become overwhelmed and simply pick the first thing you see. However, instead of opting for the norm, consider taking wrapping paper to the next level. There are countless alternatives for wrapping your gift which are extremely unique. For example, try using a pretty wallpaper or even sheet music to switch things up for a change. These papers, coupled with a delicate bow, makes for a very elegant presentation. For a more vintage tone, use old maps or even old comics finished off with brown string or ribbon to create a rustic look.

You can even choose to go paperless and wrap your gift in a fabric. This option opens a whole new world of possibilities with the vast array of prints, textures and styles available at any craft store. You can even use items such as burlap or a scarf to create a fun twist on traditional gift-wrapping

Like the idea of taking things up a notch, but would rather stay with actual wrapping paper?  A great outlet for finding fun and unique paper is to do a quick search on the web. There are many online stores where you can find incredibly fun wrapping paper and even customize it with your own colors, patterns and text. It’s the perfect way to personalize a gift for any occasion.

Finishing touches:

When you think of adding the finishing touches your present, what is the first thing which comes to mind? Probably a beautiful bow. But let’s face it, most of us are not able to create those extravagant bows and oftentimes, the ones in the stores have the potential to look cheap. Instead of leaving your gift bare, think outside the norm for different ways you can decorate your gift.

If you enjoy using ribbon, but want to shy away from the bow, then pair your ribbon with other items. Burlap ribbon or brown string coupled with small pine cones and fresh evergreen can give your present naturalistic beauty. For a more feminine touch, use small ribbon on top of large ribbon to add dimension. Top this off with a flower – real or homemade – to create a gift that is too pretty to open. If you are wanting to go above and beyond the normal finishing touches, a fun way to complete your present is with another gift! Using ribbon and tying small trinkets such as peppermint candy or a family ornament to the outside of your gift will give the receiver an added surprise.

Gift Tags:

Unless it’s Christmas time or the bag we purchase conveniently has a name tag attached, this is the part of gift-giving we often forgo. But don’t underestimate how such a small accessory can really add to your gift! When it comes to gift tags, forget the stickers you can buy at any store and get creative! A fun gift tag everyone will love is a small chalk board. With inexpensive craft wood and chalk paint, you can create and personalize your own gift tags with the receiver’s name and artistic designs. Another special way to customize a gift tag is to have small copies made of old family and friend photos, then write the receivers name on the back.  For an anniversary gift, use a photo from your wedding or first date. Or try using a picture from a childhood birthday when giving birthday gifts this year. This personal touch helps recall special memories for the receiver which is sure to bring a smile to their face.

Want to completely shy away from gift tags? Then try putting the person’s name directly on the package. There are countless ways you can display their name such as using scrapbook paper to carefully spelling out the person’s name across a package wrapped in solid colored paper. You can even monogram your gift by purchasing a small, initial letter at your local craft store and binding it to the top of the gift with ribbon. Not only is this a fun way to take your present to the next level, but it’s an additional gift the receiver will treasure.

These are just a few ideas to help you push your creative abilities the next time you wrap a gift. With so many ways to customize your wrapping, there is something to make every occasion unique and even more special for the receiver.

The post Creative Gift Wrapping Ideas appeared first on Gifts with Style.