Gift wrapping ideas

Don't spend lots of money on luxurious wrapping paper – think outside the (gift) box

Make your Christmas presents into something extra special with these gift wrapping ideas from self-confessed wrapaholic Jane Means, who runs a nationwide Gift Wrapping School.

• Go back to basics

Support your local Post Office by buying inexpensive brown paper there for gorgeous giftwrapped presents. Prettify your packages with ribbon, then tuck natural decorations, such as sprigs of holly or mistletoe and bunches of rosemary from your garden, into the ribbon. Brown paper can easily be recycled after the big day, unlike most metallic wrapping paper.

• Use flexible wrapping materials

Try Cellophane (available from florists by the metre) and fabric remnants – to wrap awkward-shaped presents, such as bottles and balls, instead of struggling with paper. If you've got easy-to-wrap gifts, use the same, plain-coloured paper for all of them – they'll look lovely under the Christmas tree.

• Save money

Wrap gifts in inexpensive paper, then add a narrow band of luxury paper around the package and finish off with ribbon so it looks like you've splashed out on expensive wrapping. This is a great way to get a luxurious look on a tight budget, as a large sheet of expensive paper goes a long way. When your family unwraps their presents on Christmas Day, remember to save nice pieces of paper to re-use next year.

• Use tablecloths

Visit your local pound shop and stock up on paper tablecloths in festive designs. They're perfect for wrapping really large items that would use up lots of (more expensive) paper.

• Be creative

Everyday things you've got at home can give your packages a new lease of life. Unravel an unused silver kitchen scourer and use as a homemade 'bow', or attach dog biscuits to a wrapped gift for a dog lover or the dog itself – just don't leave it under the tree! Let your imagination run riot.

Pictured is a selection of wrapping paper and decorations from HobbyCraft

Feeling inspired? Show us your festive home on the forum - the best will appear in the magazine.

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