Welcome!
This is Day 12 of the 21 Days to a Stress Free & Debt Free Christmas.
I’m so excited that you are joining me for the start of what I hope will be a really helpful series designed to walk with you step by step through the Christmas season in a way that ensures you keep your sanity and that you don’t overspend.
We’ve talked a lot about gift lists and gift ideas over the past few days, but now we need to transition to getting it all wrapped and under the tree! Today, let’s talk about some budget-friendly gift wrap tips.
Before I jump right in, I have to confess that I am not one of those people who goes crazy over gift wrap. I love looking at beautifully wrapped gifts, but have never felt the pressure to duplicate it myself. If that is your thing, then by all means go for it!
I actually enjoy wrapping presents (I worked at the gift wrap station at a toy store when I was home from college) but I’m not crafty at all. Fancy gift wrap goes is way over my head. 🙂 So, take my suggestions with that in mind. We definitely keep it fairly simple in our house. Feel free to check out my Christmas Pinterest board where I have some posts that show gorgeous gift wrap ideas.
1. Ask for gift boxes from the stores where you purchase
If a store offers you a gift box, definitely take it! Even if you might not use it for the items you just purchased, I guarantee they will come in handy for something else. I’m also noticing that not all stores ask if you would like gift boxes. If that’s the case, don’t hesitate to ask them for one. They may have limited stock to give out, but it never hurts to ask.
2. Reuse items you saved from last year
Hopefully you were able to keep some gift boxes, gift bags, or maybe even some bows from last year. Don’t be ashamed to pull those out and reuse them! It’s a great way to save money and reduce waste.
3. Check your local discount stores
Local discount stores such as Dollar Tree are great places to pick up some inexpensive gift wrap supplies. Keep in mind that the rolls of wrapping paper can sometimes be small rolls, and sometimes thinner quality, but it works in a pinch. I was pleased when I saw larger rolls at Aldi today for only $1.49, so I picked some up!
Even if you avoid the cheaper quality wrapping paper, these stores are a great place to find gift tins, tissue paper, bows, ribbon, gift bags, sticker gift tags, or tape.
4. Use newsprint or brown paper bags
Who says you have to wrap your items with wrapping paper? I think newsprint or brown paper (you can use paper bags too), with some simple red ribbon looks really nice and classy. If you wanted to get your kids involved, you could even have them use stamps to add some fun to the paper.
5. Stock up after Christmas
The clearance sales after Christmas are a great time to stock up on gift wrap supplies. I know money can be tight right after the holidays, but it’s a great way to prep a little for next year if you are able.
6. Make the package part of the gift
You might be able to avoid wrapping if you can incorporate it into the item itself. Consider giving your items in a basket or metal tin and skip on the wrapping paper altogether.
7. Leave large gifts unwrapped
Certain gifts are so big and awkwardly shaped that we avoid wrapping them altogether. Sometimes it’s just not possible or worth it to use so much paper. Often, a big bow will suffice for larger items.
If you are looking for some more inspiration, check out the posts below. Some of these ideas are beautiful!
Gift Wrapping Ideas & Printable Gift Tags by The Idea Room
Use Tulle for Ribbon to Decorate Your Gifts by Coupon Closet
How to Save Money on Wrapping Paper by Living Well Spending Less
How are things going so far?
Let me know in the comments!
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This series is wonderful! It has been so great to think through a little bit of Christmas each day. I was beginning to feel overwhelmed by the upcoming holidays and this has been so perfect. Little chunks at a time to figure out. Thank you!
Yeah! I’m so glad to hear that, Sara! I hope y’all had a great Thanksgiving!! –Sarah 🙂