5 Sustainable Alternatives
to Wrapping Paper
Did you know some 227,000 miles of wrapping paper are thrown away each year in the UK? That’s roughly the distance from the earth to the moon. What a waste! A beautifully wrapped gift under the Christmas tree is a wonderful sight and a fun part of getting into the spirit of the season. But with an estimated 50,000 trees used to make Christmas wrapping paper each year, not to mention the gift wrapping that ends up in landfill after the festive season, it’s difficult to reconcile. So, how can you wrap that perfect fairisle jumper or box of chocolates without adding to the mountain of waste?
6 Sustainable Alternatives
to Wrapping Paper
Did you know some 227,000 miles of wrapping paper are thrown away each year in the UK? That’s roughly the distance from the earth to the moon. What a waste! A beautifully wrapped gift under the Christmas tree is a wonderful sight and a fun part of getting into the spirit of the season. But with an estimated 50,000 trees used to make Christmas wrapping paper each year, not to mention the gift wrapping that ends up in landfill after the festive season, it’s difficult to reconcile. So, how can you wrap that perfect fairisle jumper or box of chocolates without adding to the mountain of waste?
This year, why not ditch traditional Christmas gift wrap altogether? Instead of using glittery xmas wrapping paper that can’t be recycled, opt for creative and reusable alternatives that friends, family and the planet will love to receive. Getting creative with your wrapping is also perfect for those awkward to wrap presents, such as a cuddly toy or plant pot. From Furoshiki to seed paper, get creative with our eco-friendly alternatives to wrapping paper and ideas for wrapping gifts.
1. Furoshiki: The Art of Japanese Fabric Wrapping
If you love the ritual of wrapping a gift, why not give Furoshiki a try? Furoshiki is a traditional Japanese cloth used to wrap gifts and a stylish and zero-waste solution for gift wrapping. But, you don’t have to use a special Japanese cloth to wrap your gift, any quality piece of fabric will do. Maybe a scarf, a tea towel or silk off-cuts from your latest sewing project? Choose the right size fabric according to your gift by using our handy size guide below…
Mini: approx 30cm - jewellery box, glass jam jar or small candle
Small: approx 45 cm - box of socks, book or DVD’s
Medium: approx 75cm - clothing, a bottle of wine or box of chocolates
Large: approx 90cm - two bottles of wine or a board game
Treat your fabric as you would wrapping paper. With a few well-placed folds and knots and maybe some ribbon, you will have a beautifully wrapped gift in no time. Don’t worry if it takes a few attempts to master. Practice makes perfect! It’s also ideal for neatly wrapping oddly shaped gifts. And in true Furoshiki style, once the receiver has opened their gift they can use the scarf or tea towel - a bonus gift!
2. Gift Box
A gift box is an easy alternative to Christmas wrapping paper and makes a gift extra special. It can also be reused once the festive season ends, making it score highly on the eco-friendly board. Our high-quality recycled cardboard gift box with ribbon is a sturdy and stylish alternative to non-recyclable wrapping paper. Whilst the cardboard is fully recyclable, you won’t want to stick it in the recycling bin. The perfect size for storing all sorts of items, from balls of wool to paperwork, this handy storage box is practical and versatile. You can also get crafty and personalise it, by painting or adding decoupage or fabric.
2. Gift Box
A gift box is an easy alternative to Christmas wrapping paper and makes a gift extra special. It can also be reused once the festive season ends, making it score highly on the eco-friendly board. Our high-quality recycled cardboard gift box with ribbon is a sturdy and stylish alternative to non-recyclable wrapping paper. Whilst the cardboard is fully recyclable, you won’t want to stick it in the recycling bin. The perfect size for storing all sorts of items, from balls of wool to paperwork, this handy storage box is practical and versatile. You can also get crafty and personalise it, by painting or adding decoupage or fabric.
3. Newspaper and Magazine Chic
Chances are you've got a stack of old newspapers or magazines lying around that can be used as quirky gift wrapping. Pick pages with colourful or interesting images and articles and you have a one-of-a-kind gift wrap that’s current and topical! Add a festive ribbon, twine or some foliage, such as holly or pine leaves, for a festive final touch.
EASY ECO SWAP: the glue on tapes can’t be recycled. Use string or ribbon instead.
3. Newspaper and Magazine Chic
Chances are you've got a stack of old newspapers or magazines lying around that can be used as quirky gift wrapping. Pick pages with colourful or interesting images and articles and you have a one-of-a-kind gift wrap that’s current and topical! Add a festive ribbon, twine or some foliage, such as holly or pine leaves, for a festive final touch.
EASY ECO SWAP: the glue on tapes can’t be recycled. Use string or ribbon instead.
4. Woolly Sleeve Bottle Bag
When it comes to sustainable gift wrapping, one of the cosiest and most heartwarming gift wrapping ideas is upcycling an old woolly jumper into gift wrap. Not only does this creative idea give a new life to an otherwise unwearable holey sweater, but it also adds a personal touch that can't be replicated with traditional brown wrapping paper. It works especially well for wrapping a bottle of their favourite tipple or other tricky-to-wrap shapes. Take the sleeve of an old wool jumper and cut to size depending on the shape of the bottle. Sew the opposite end to the cuff and tie the top with ribbon and a cardboard tag to seal. You can even hang a tree decoration around the neck of the bottle for an added touch of festive spirit, as well as an extra surprise gift.
5. Reuse your Woolovers Paper Bag
If you’ve treated yourself or a loved one to a colourful WoolOvers jumper or a snug pair of slippers this Christmas, did you know the paper bags they are delivered in are 100% recyclable, biodegradable and compostable? They’re also the perfect material for wrapping and can be easily transformed into a charming gift wrap. Simply unfold the bag to create a generous, single piece of wrapping. If you prefer the minimal look, wrap your gift with the paper in its original form or unleash your creative side by adding festive drawings or stamps as we’ve done here. Finish with ribbon and you not only have a beautifully wrapped gift, but one that is fully recyclable and reusable.
Finding Your Perfect Fit
Of all the how to gift wrapping ideas, this is possibly the most natural. Seed paper is not just gift wrapping; it's a gift within itself. This eco-friendly paper contains flower or herb seeds, so the receiver can plant it in their garden and watch it bloom. It's like spreading the festive joy all year round! If you’re feeling extra crafty, you can have a go at making seed wrapping paper at home. It’s easier than you might think. All you need to make your own seed wrapping paper is a couple of pieces of tissue paper, wildflower seeds, a spray bottle filled with water and some cornstarch glue.
Remember, every small effort counts in reducing the amount of wrapping paper that ends up in landfills every Christmas. Wrap thoughtfully, share the love, and let's make the planet part of our festive celebrations!
5. Reuse your Woolovers Paper Bag
If you’ve treated yourself or a loved one to a colourful WoolOvers jumper or a snug pair of slippers this Christmas, did you know the paper bags they are delivered in are 100% recyclable, biodegradable and compostable? They’re also the perfect material for wrapping and can be easily transformed into a charming gift wrap. Simply unfold the bag to create a generous, single piece of wrapping. If you prefer the minimal look, wrap your gift with the paper in its original form or unleash your creative side by adding festive drawings or stamps as we’ve done here. Finish with ribbon and you not only have a beautifully wrapped gift, but one that is fully recyclable and reusable.
6. Plant a Surprise with Seed Paper
Of all the how to gift wrapping ideas, this is possibly the most natural. Seed paper is not just gift wrapping; it's a gift within itself. This eco-friendly paper contains flower or herb seeds, so the receiver can plant it in their garden and watch it bloom. It's like spreading the festive joy all year round! If you’re feeling extra crafty, you can have a go at making seed wrapping paper at home. It’s easier than you might think. All you need to make your own seed wrapping paper is a couple of pieces of tissue paper, wildflower seeds, a spray bottle filled with water and some cornstarch glue.
Remember, every small effort counts in reducing the amount of wrapping paper that ends up in landfills every Christmas. Wrap thoughtfully, share the love, and let's make the planet part of our festive celebrations!