You don’t need to spend a sleigh load of cash this holiday on extravagant rolls of ribbon and wrapping paper to give gorgeous gifts. Look no further than your mailbox, kitchen table, or pantry to package presents beautifully – topped with stunning paper bows and handmade pom-poms – using recycled paper and household paper goods.
Published November 27, 2015, Updated December 16, 2020
Off the Fridge
Enjoy an afternoon of crafting with the kids or simply borrow some artwork from the refrigerator to create easy, whimsical wrapping paper.
Off the Fridge
Use watercolour paper for extra flexibility (don’t forget to let it dry completely!) or doodle directly on craft paper.
Off the Fridge
Lastly, pick a bold-coloured ribbon to add some contrast to your newly wrapped gift.
DIY Magazine Magic
Cut out large, full-colour or black-and-white images from your favourite newspapers or magazines. Not only does it look good but it’s a fun task to do with the kids.
DIY Magazine Magic
Look through the special sections or style pages, which usually have a brighter and shinier finish.
DIY Magazine Magic
You can also tape together multiple images or pages to create a collage.
Colour Your World
Borrow a page (ahem) from the colouring book trend and wrap a box using a partially finished masterpiece.
Colour Your World
For a more sophisticated look, browse the large selection of intricate and artistic colouring books for adults available at Indigo. We love this one that’s full of beautiful flowers.
Colour Your World
Top the pretty paper with red ribbon and you’re all set!
Put a Bow on It
Why buy expensive bows for gifts when you can make your own? You’ll save money and have a blast making them, too.
Put a Bow on It
All you have to do is download a paper bow template online (there’s three easy steps, we promise!) in order to make your own colourful collection.
Put a Bow on It
Use glittery or shiny craft paper for an extra sleek look. We love this shiny paper that comes in an assortment of beautiful colours.
Put a Bow on It
We love how sophisticated this navy blue bow-tie like bow looks atop this gift.
Fancy Fringe
Use any bit of leftover paper to create a striking, texturized ribbon. Simply cut thin strips along both edges and secure it with a dab of glue or tape.
Fancy Fringe
Bonus: this is a brilliant and sneaky way to hide any imperfect edges or exposed bits of your gift.
Pretty Pom-Poms
Warning: making paper pom-poms can become addictive. Bundle together sheets of tissue paper (as if you’re creating a fan), cut round edges, tie in the centre, and carefully separate each piece. Use white tissue paper or parchment paper to create a fun snowball look!
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