WRAPPING PAPER ET AL

This year, I didn't buy any wrapping paper for Christmas. My goal for many months now has been to use less paper and try to make the wrapping for my gifts:

1) part of the gift
2) reusable
3) made from recycled or re-purposed items

I've been slowly using up the stash of paper, tags and bows I've had now for years - why buy more? Use what you have! That's why you have it!!

If you do buy wrapping paper, check your thrift stores first - truth!! If nothing else, make sure it's 100% recycled.

Ribbon? Well, when I get something - I recycle ever piece of it I can to re-use. I keep it all nicely organized in containers. This year I got a great buy and a load of ribbon from my local Goodwill. Not only did I contribute to worthy cause, I even saved myself nearly 9% sales tax!! Goodwill is a non-profit - no tax!!

Here's an example of one of my gift wrapping ideas this year:

I have a friend who loves strawberries and is a Macy's fan (yes, big box store - I know) so I found this great vintage ceramic (looks hand made because of the intricacy and dainty flaws) strawberry box at a thrift shop and I filled it with recycled/re-purposed 'grass' from a previous gift to nestle the gift card in that I purchased for her online and through a 'points for me' site. Then I secured it using "glue dots" and used re-purposed red velvet ribbon salvaged from a gift I'd received, lord knows when. I had a sweet little pre-done red velvet bow from another item I'd received sometime down the line - and I paired that with home made 'flowers' that I made from junk mail, a flower shaped paper punch and a tiny brad. Whalah!