Get creative.  Wrapping gifts doesn't have to mean using a box covered in paper and the same old ribbon.  Place small gifts in a fabric wine bag. Or get some great gift bags and place them under your tree.

 

 

Choose coordinated papers. For gifts that you will wrap, select gift wrap that will look great under your tree.  To do this, choose papers that have similar colors and themes to that of your holiday decorations.  I like to use simple solid or classically-patterned papers and spiff them up with ribbons and finishing touches.

 

 

 

Choose a special ribbon. At my home, we use wired craft ribbon to make packages look especially elegant.  It holds its shape well, and you can recycle it year to year.  Using great wired, grosgrain, or satin ribbon can make any package seem like a real treat.  Or, why not cut strips of colorful tulle (that inexpensive mesh fabric commonly draped around at weddings) to form a bow?

  

 

Add a tie-on.  Think of these as ornaments for your packages.  A tie-on could be as simple as a beautiful gift tag you make from leftover cards, or as unique as a brooch you pin to a beautiful satin ribbon.  Other tie-ons might be holiday floral picks or a small stuffed animal you tie or tuck into the bow. 

 

 

 

Use your packages as decorations. Place them on top of kitchen cupboards, armoires, buffets, or china cabinets.  Pile them under benches or console tables.

 

Take it easy on yourself.  I don't go that extra mile to make every package elegant.  Instead, I wrap some gifts simply, without bows, especially those which have to make the long trip to Grandma's House.  I place these plain packages at the back of the tree and let their fancy friends sit up front. 

 
Have fun this week and don't work your fingers to the bone wrapping!