Wrapping with Newspaper in Stylish Ways

Newspaper works as an unexpected but effective wrapping material. As an accessible, versatile, and easy-to-customize option, it’s both eco-friendly and savvy in design.

So, how can you take a regular ol’ newspaper and have it add to your gift wrapping in the best way possible? Here are a few ideas!

1. Minimal Fold-and-Tie Wrap

A full-page spreads work best, particularly those free of heavy imagery or cluttered layouts. Look for sections with strong headlines, clean typography, or generous negative space, such as the financial pages or editorial sections.

Make sure to apply crisp edges and tight corners to make sure your wrapping looks intentional (not crinkled and ready for the trash bin!). Finish off the look with natural twine, plain cotton cord, narrow ribbon, or a small tag. 

2. Layered Newspaper Wrap

Layering uses two contrasting sections of newspaper to create depth. This might mean text over images, or two pages with different tonal qualities—one dense with columns, another lighter with more white space.

The key is folding and overlapping so the final arrangement feels deliberate. One sheet wraps the gift fully; the second wraps partially or at an angle, exposing the layer beneath. This is a particularly great option for more medium-sized gifts where surface area allows the layering to read clearly. 

For added definition, a slim band of solid-color paper can separate the layers.

3. Newspaper as a Band or Sleeve

For brands that want a mix of traditional and unconventional materials, newspaper can serve as an overlay rather than the primary wrap. For this method, standard wrapping paper covers the gift; a newspaper band adds character on top.

But the right width matters here! Too narrow and the band disappears; too wide and it overwhelms the base. Measure and test before settling on your final placement.

4. Typography-Focused Wrap

Some newspaper sections offer strong visual material: bold headlines, clean column layouts, or illustrative type treatments. Typography-focused wrapping selects these sections deliberately and lets the letterforms carry the design.

Aligning text direction with the folds helps the final appearance feel neat. For instance, this could involve columns running parallel to the box edges pr headlines sitting straight across the top. A single small embellishment can finish the look, such as a stamped tag, a wax dot, or a simple sticker.

5. Comic Sections and Photos

Newspapers often include comic sections, magazine-style inserts, or feature photography worth using. These visual sections create a different effect than text-heavy pages—more playful, more image-driven!

For instance, this can be a great option for a child's gift. Comics add a whole other element to the gift. 

6. Twisted Newspaper Ribbon

A newspaper can surprisingly replace ribbon entirely. Cutting strips and twisting them into simple cords creates a material that ties like traditional ribbon but matches the wrap beneath.

Use a small knot or a dab of glue to secure the ends, and make sure to only gently twist to avoid tearing. For more structure, braiding three strips together can help create a sturdier cord. 

7. Newspaper Flowers or Accents

Folded paper flowers or simple geometric accents add dimension without requiring new materials. Basic flowers involve cutting circles, folding petals, and layering pieces together. Simpler options include folded fans, small rosettes, or circular cutouts stacked for depth.

Attaching these in small clusters keeps the design clean, such as one flower at a corner or a pair of accents near the tie. 

Bring It All Together…

Overall, newspaper becomes a stylish wrapping material when paired with the right method. The techniques above range from structured folds to image-forward options, giving you plenty of creative room to play with!

So, experiment with things. Don’t hold back. Remember, if you don’t like the look, you can always recycle and try again!