Effortlessly Imperfect Present Wrapping
BY JENNIFER ADAMS
Gift wrapping is something I often put off! Even though it’s fun once I get going — especially during the holidays — I find myself scrambling at the last minute.
Because I scramble, my presents never look perfect, from the tiny boxes on the table I sometimes use as name cards holders, to the big gift boxes for my husband. Even though I have a casual approach, I help myself by collecting attractive paper, supplies and items so I can quickly pull off an effortless gift wrap. Here are some ideas:
- Collect plain colored or metallic looking wrapping paper, plain brown paper gift bags, twine, raffia, ribbons and tissue paper you can use for any occasion year round. I especially like natural colors like white, off white, newsprint or brown kraft paper. Stock up after the holidays for the best deals!
- Keep the perfect bows from gifts you have received to use again.
- Mix "high end" with "low end" materials such as a beautiful paper and simple jute twine, or plain newsprint and a beautiful ribbon. So even if you are in a rush, it’ll still come off as intentional.
- Tie the ribbon, twine or raffia in a bow, like you would your shoelaces. Then, diagonally cut the loops and trim all the ends to be the same length. This is much quicker than trying to get the bows just perfect!
- Use decorative fabric napkins or squares of burlap to wrap your gifts “hobo” style by bringing two opposite corners together to knot, then repeat again with the two remaining corners. Or, try gathering all four corners together and fasten securely with twine.
- Use small brown paper bags with twine handles, and beautiful tissue paper or fabric inside to conceal the gift. A festive bow to tie the handles together is the perfect finishing touch.
- If you have pine trees where you live, tuck a clipping from a branch inside your bow to bring in the winter season. The smell of pine sets a holiday tone for the gift.
Keep It Simple
Sometimes the pressure of wrapping the perfect present is so daunting that we put off ever delivering the gift at all! So keep it simple, and go easy on yourself. Your generosity will bring joy to your friend or family member, whether you’re a professional gift wrapper or not!
Have a design dilemma? Jennifer Adams is an award-winning designer, TV Personality and author of "Love Coming Home". Send your questions to AskJennifer@JenniferAdams.com. A variety of Jennifer Adams Home products are available on Costco.com and in select Costco warehouses.
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