Have you ever thought about making your own wrapping paper? Making your wrapping paper from scratch or even if it's just adding an extra bit of decoration or embellishment can really elevate your gift-giving.
In this round-up, we'll show you creative ways to add a bit of sparkle to your gifts including inventive ways to wrap and decorate, how to finish your gifts, and easy ways to make your presents look pro.
5 ways to make your own wrapping paper
1. Acrylic paint stamped wrapping paper tutorial
Handmade wrapping paper materials
- Acrylic paint
- Stencilling brush or sponge
- Christmas-themed crafting stencils
- White paper
- Masking tape
- Pencil and scissors
- Plain paper and cellophane
- Luggage tags
- Ribbon or twine
Step 1
Put one of your stencils onto white paper and trace around the edge of the stencil. Cut out the area inside the outline, creating an aperture that’s about 5mm smaller than the stencil but the same shape. This is your mask.
Step 2
Place the stencil over the aperture and use masking tape to stick it to the mask all around the edge. Turn it over and you’re ready to go.
Step 3
Dab a small amount of acrylic paint onto your stencilling brush or sponge and do a couple of practice dabs on some scrap paper to remove any excess paint. (If there’s too much paint on the brush it could bleed under the edges of the stencil.)
Step 4
Now place your stencil onto your plain wrapping paper and dab the paint through it. Hold the stencil firm as you apply the paint – if it moves, the design will smudge.
Step 5
Once you’ve covered the whole stencil with paint, gently lift it up. Repeat in rows to build up a pattern. Leave to dry for 30 minutes.
Step 6
Wrap your gifts and add ribbon or trims to suit your style!
You can use this technique to stencil patterns onto cellophane that you can layer over plain or stencilled brown paper. Try decorating gift bags and cardboard tags too.
2. DIY gift wrapping with stickers
Adding stickers to your wrapping paper is a fun and easy way to make a gift personal. Sarah Hearts show us how to make watermelon stickers in this easy tutorial.
3. Make your own wrapping paper using spray paint
If you want to add a bit of creative flair to your gift giving this fantastic tutorial from Passion Shake is ideal! You'll take plain white paper and give it an amazing marbled effect in this easy tutorial.
4. Make wrapping paper with the kids
Make your wrapping paper sentimental by getting your little ones involved, family members will love it! A fun craft for kids is finger painting, so why not incorporate it into making gift wrap with Red Ted Art's DIY tutorial?
5. DIY book wrapping paper idea
If you're giving books as gifts this year check out Penguin's DIY book wrapping paper tutorial. It's a great craft to get the kids involved in.
Personalise your gifts and find out how to make your own wrapping paper
Making your own wrapping paper will add an extra special touch to your gifts, whether you use spray paint or stickers, we know your recipients will love it!
How to wrap a gift
You've got the wrapping paper, now it's time for the technique. Have a look at our how to wrap a present tutorial for lots of top tips.
