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From jute bags and boxes to raffia and ribbons Construction Fence
Are you looking for Christmas wrap ideas for 2023? With searches for sustainable Christmas wrapping paper on the up, many of us are on the hunt for green ways to wrap without waste — and there are plenty of options.
A 2017 study found that us Brits get through 108 million rolls of wrapping paper over the festive season – that's four rolls per household, or enough to go around the world 22 times. While there are lots of recyclable options for Christmas wrapping paper, we've taken a closer look at other more eco-friendly Christmas gift wrap ideas and easy, clever ways to make them part of your Christmas this year.
Fabric wrap or fabric gift bags are great options because they are often made from scraps of material, sustainable cotton or cut-offs from clothing, like saris. They come in all shapes and sizes so you'll easily be able to find one large enough for that dressing gown you've bought for your mum, or small enough for the new earrings on order for your best friend. They can be used again, year after year. Don't hesitate in asking the recipient to give you the bag back.
Our favourite fabric gift wrap includes this beautiful red design from Notonthehighstreet (£13), this gorgeous fabric bundle from TOAST (£20) and this pretty Furoshiki-style wrap from Etsy (£3.99). Shop some additional styles below:
From using sprigs of rosemary on a present, to dried orange slices and cinnamon sticks, there are plenty of brilliant gift wrapping ideas already hiding around your house.
If you have magazines delivered (like a subscription to Country Living), carefully remove your favourite festive pages to use as gift wrap for smaller gifts. Top with bright red ribbon or green bows for a striking look. Check last year's wrapping supplies and use up odd ends of wrapping paper. Cut out old Christmas cards to double as tags for new gifts. Elsewhere, brown paper is great for giving gifts a rustic look, especially when tied with a bow.
Don't forget to use what you can from last year: present bags can be regifted if they are looked after properly.
Foraging for foliage to add to your presents is an easy way to have a greener Christmas – just be mindful what you pick and from where. If you have a real Christmas tree, the easiest solution is to trim the lower branches to use, or head to your local forest or park and look for pine cones and holly leaves. Just steer clear of mistletoe on a gift as the berries are harmful if ingested.
Alternatively, jute string or raffia string can look really effective around plain paper. If you are planning to forage your own supplies, remember to:
Ribbons are a great way to decorate presents, either on their own or with recycled brown paper or newspaper. We've found options that are more sustainable. Alternatively, recyclable tape is a great option. Usually made from FSC paper, it's recyclable and biodegradable.
Another alternative is paper or cardboard gift bags or boxes. Many have been made from recycled paper and materials, and can be reused for future presents.
Not sure what to do with last week's paper? Ditch the traditional holiday wrapping this gift-giving season and get creative by upcycling old newspaper into wrapping materials. Don't forget to stay clear of plastic tape: you could either wrap with a pretty velvet bow or secure with jute string.
Top tip: wrap some dried flowers in newspaper to gift to a loved one at Christmas. Beautiful blooms are always a good idea.
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