Last Minute Gift Wrapping Ideas

I used to hate wrapping gifts because I was terrible at it – I always got the wrapping paper all wrinkled and cut it unevenly… trust me, it was a mess. Once I realized that I didn’t have to use traditional wrapping paper, a whole new door opened up. Wrapping gifts is something you can have fun with and be creative with — there are no rules. Since then, I’ve come to love wrapping gifts almost as much as I love giving them. Each one is a work of art, a personalized creation that will make the receiver smile before they even see what’s inside. I also love using little homemade toppers that are gifts in themselves.

Here are some ways I’m wrapping gifts this year – let me know your own methods in the comments!

DIY Cardstock Boxes

I never seem to have boxes to put gifts in, and this year I decided to just make my own. I was surprised by how easy it is – all you need is some cardstock, scissors, and double sided tape!

I used 8.5 x 11 cardstock for my boxes, but you could definitely use different sizes to alter the size of your box.

Step One: Lay the cardstock horizontally and fold so that the two sides meet evenly in the middle.

Step Two: Turn the cardstock vertically and do the same thing, folding so that the two sides meet evenly in the middle.

Step Three: Cut the cardstock along the dotted lines as pictured stopping when you reach the crease.

Step Four: Fold the flaps as pictured.

Step Five: When you fold the sides up you’ll see that the edges are uneven – use a pencil to mark where the sides overlap and trim off the excess.

Step Six: Use double sided tape to secure the flaps in place. Repeat these steps on a second piece of cardstock, and you have your box bottom and lid!

The best part is that you don’t even have to wrap the boxes – they look beautiful as is! I like adding a simple white string and then experimenting with different toppers.

Something homemade is a great personal touch – especially if it’s something useful, like this homemade peppermint lip balm.

Little charms also make for great toppers – attach them to the gift with some leather cord so they can then be made into a bracelet or necklace!

A single stick of Palo Santo looks beautiful and smells amazing.

I also love the idea of topping a gift with a little apothecary bottle filled with essential oil – this one contains lavender oil, but you could also create your own custom scents specific to whoever you’re giving the gift to.

A little bit of gold paint adds subtle elegance.

Lastly, and my favorite, is the gods eye. These beautiful creations are meaningful and symbolic, and can be used as little decorative touches around the home. (Learn how to make them with this tutorial from a little while back!).

How are you wrapping your gifts this year? Share in the comments!

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