One of the many things I look forward to during the holidays is surprising others with thoughtful gifts. Gift-giving is a wonderful way to show someone your love and appreciation!
To take it a step further, at least when time allows, I also like to put some extra thought into how I wrap my gifts. The wrapping creates a fun element of surprise, while also enhancing anticipation for the recipient. Plus, a good wrap job is just fun to look at!
That said, not all gifts come in boxes, which can make them a challenge to wrap. But worry no more today, I’m sharing a bunch of great gift-wrapping ideas for items without boxes!
7+ Gift Wrapping Ideas Without Box
Get Creative With Wrapping Paper
What do you do when you have plenty of wrapping paper and no boxes, but you need to wrap gift after gift for Christmas morning? The most obvious answer is to get creative with your wrapping paper!
Flower Aura shared some fun ideas, including what they call “candy style.” Here’s how to pull off this super easy wrapping style:
- Place the item in the middle of a sheet of wrapping paper
- Roll up the item until it’s completely covered, then trim the excess, leaving a few inches of paper on both sides
- Secure the rolled portion with tape
- Twist and scrunch the top and bottom portion of the paper, then tie both ends with a ribbon
- Curl the ribbons and viola–the final result should look like a wrapped piece of candy!
Bag It Up
The easiest way to wrap a gift when you don’t have a box is to use a bag. This is a great option when you’re short on time. Feel free to use whatever holiday-themed gift bags you have, or you can grab some burlap bags or brown paper bags. Then, you simply place the item in the bag and either secure the top or stuff it with tissue paper to hide what’s inside!
Wrap With Fabric
Here’s a fun, eco-friendly way to wrap gifts without a box. You can use whatever scrap fabric you have on hand, whether it’s old t-shirts, an old sweater, or scraps of fabric from other projects. You can roll up the item or fold the fabric like an envelope, as long as the item you’re wrapping is covered, you’re good to go!
The thing with fabric, though, is that you might have to secure it with fabric glue if you can’t tie it together, so be sure to have enough excess fabric to secure it!
Use Empty Jars
Another alternative to box for gift wrapping is to use empty jars from jams, pickles, and other food items. This is a great option for handmade gifts like bath salts, candles, bake mixes, chocolates, or sweets. Simply fill them up and decorate them with a scrap of fabric, string, and a name tag!
Reuse Metal Tins
Finally, make good use of any metal tins you or your friends and family may have lying around. Any old tin will do, like those old cookie tins that are often reused for sewing supplies. This is a great alternative for small gifts like jewelry, while big tins are perfect for small items of clothing or oddly shaped accessories.
To wrap them, simply put the item inside the tin and decorate however you like!
Basket It
Turn a small basket into a beautiful gift presentation. Line the basket with festive fabric, shredded paper, or tissue paper. Place the gift inside, then wrap the entire basket with clear cellophane and tie it off with a ribbon.
Baskets work well for multiple small items, like a self-care kit or a foodie gift set. You can also add greenery, pinecones, or ornaments for a holiday vibe.
Roll It Up In A Scarf Or Blanket
For larger or soft gifts, like sweaters, blankets, or plush toys, consider wrapping them in something that’s part of the gift itself!
For example, you can use a scarf, throw blanket, or large piece of fabric to roll or fold around the gift. Then, tie it securely with a belt, ribbon, or decorative string for a polished finish.
Think of a sweater and a teddy bear–they can be wrapped together, with the teddy wrapped in the sweater.
How To Make A Gift Bag Out Of Wrapping Paper
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
To get started, gather all of the supplies you need:
- Wrapping paper (sturdy enough to hold your gift)
- Scissors
- Tape (preferably double-sided tape for a clean finish)
- A ruler
- Ribbon or twine (optional for handles)
Step 2: Cut the Wrapping Paper to Size
Lay your wrapping paper on a flat surface and cut out a rectangular piece large enough to accommodate the size of your gift.
Step 3: Fold and Tape the Sides
Place the wrapping paper with the decorative side facing down. Fold the paper inward to create a “tube” shape, overlapping the edges, and tape them together.
Step 4: Create the Bottom of the Bag
Fold the bottom edge of the paper up to form the base of your gift bag. Create triangular folds on each side and tape it securely.
Step 6: Add Handles and Finishing Touches
Optional: Attach ribbon, twine, or paper handles to the bag and add any decorative touches, such as bows, name tags, or tissue paper.
Step 7: Place the Gift Inside and Enjoy!
Carefully place your gift into the bag, ensuring it fits comfortably. Your gift is now ready to be shared!
There are plenty of fun ways to wrap gifts, no box required!
Whether you’re trying to be more eco-friendly, want to save money, or are attempting some last-minute gift wrapping, there are tons of great ways to wrap gifts without a box.
Which idea is your favorite? Do you have another gift-wrapping idea to share? Let me know in the comments! For more helpful content like this, as well as all things related to motherhood and family life, head over to the blog!
