Handmade Gift Wrap Ideas for DIY Gifting

DIY gift wrapping adds a personal touch that transforms even the simplest present into a memorable experience. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, holiday, or just because, creative gift wrapping can be just as rewarding as selecting the perfect gift itself.

But what are some easy DIY gift wrapping ideas that actually show you care? Below, we’ve got more than a few options. If you prefer to go the handmade gift wrap route, don’t fret; there are plenty of ways to ensure your gift presentation is on par with even the most expensive options.

What Can You Use Instead of Gift Wrap?

There are so many options—many of which may already be hanging around your home. 

If you’d prefer not to use traditional gift wrap, try these options for homemade gift wrapping ideas:

• Fabric

• Old maps

• Sheet music

• Book pages

• Tea towels

• Reusable bags

• Newspaper

• Brown Kraft paper

• Scarves or bandanas

• Reusable gift bags

Some of the best options are reusable and eco-friendly. For example, even the gift bag (which perhaps you received from another loved one) can be reused. Alternatively, newspapers can be recycled. Meanwhile, fabric options can easily be used again and again or for other DIY projects.

Easy DIY Gift Wrap Materials to Keep on Hand

If you’re leaning into handmade gift wrapping and want to stick with it, why not make your own gift wrapping box or basket? This simply means collecting items that are easy to use for wrapping and decorating gifts, like:

• Kraft paper

• Twine, yarn, or jute

• Washi tape

• Fresh greenery

• Stamps and ink pads

• Scrap fabric

• Recycled paper (like grocery bags)

Some fun additions further include:

• Dried flowers

• Small wooden tags

• Stickers

• Markers/pens

Handmade Gift Wrap Ideas to Try

Not sure where exactly to start? Here are some must-try combinations.

1. Kraft Paper + Twine + Greenery

For simplicity, this combo offers rustic charm. These three pairs beautifully complement each other and also offer some flexibility. You could use Kraft paper as the base with twine bringing it all together and a bit of greenery in place of a bow. 

Additionally, this is an eco-friendly option if you’re looking to potentially reduce your carbon footprint or if the recipient, in particular, is concerned about the environment. 

2. Fabric Gift Wrap (Furoshiki Style)

While fabric isn’t a common go-to, it provides something unique and can create a tactile experience for the recipient. It’s also ultra-easy to wrap. You simply place the gift on the fabric, scrunch up the fabric around it (or neatly fold it), and tie it together with a knot (or string or ribbon).

3. Stamped Paper Wrapping

This is a great one, not only if you have kids, but also for the creatives among us. It can transform simple Kraft paper into any theme or style you want, making it an easy option for birthdays and holidays. With kids, they can join the fun and help stamp the wrapping paper, creating all kinds of unique patterns! 

4. Newspaper or Sheet Music Wrap

Don’t throw out those old newspapers yet! For a nostalgic look, wrap up your next gift with an old newspaper or even sheet music. Add a black ribbon or bow to really up the presentation of this gift.

5. Washi Tape Designs

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to add some personality to your gift wrapping, washi tape is your new best friend. This colorful, decorative tape comes in an endless array of patterns and is perfect for creating stripes, crisscross designs, or even simple shapes like stars and hearts. You can stick with one pattern for a clean look or mix a few for a more playful effect. 

Plus, washi tape peels off easily, making it a low-stress way to experiment and get creative without worrying about making mistakes.

6. Layered Ribbons and Tags

This offers another really easy way to get creative with homemade gift wrapping! Consider using multiple narrow ribbons layered together, along with a handmade tag to match. You could also pair these with good ol’ Kraft paper or other options above.

7. Nature-Inspired Gift Wrap

Take a page out of Mother Nature’s book. Grab some pinecones from your backyard, dried flowers, or cinnamon sticks. While simple, these can serve as stunning and original pieces in place of bows or ribbons. You could also use them to make your own homemade stamps, then pattern your homemade wrapping paper with the design.

So, have some fun with your gift wrapping! Your creativity is sure to surprise and impress the recipient. Plus, they’ll definitely notice the thought and care you put into not just the gift but the presentation itself.