Eco-Friendly Gift Wrapping Ideas

Eco-friendly gift wrapping is a great way to reduce waste and show that you care about the environment. There are many alternatives to traditional wrapping paper.

Here are some creative and sustainable gift wrapping ideas.

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Brown Kraft Paper or Brown Paper Bags

Use plain brown kraft paper as a base for your wrapping. It’s recyclable and biodegradable. You can decorate it with stamps, drawings, or by adding natural elements like leaves or twigs.  You can buy this, or better yet, save it from packages that are packed with brown paper.

Upcycle brown paper bags from the grocery store. Cut them open and use the plain side for wrapping. Decorate with stamps or markers.

Newspaper or Old Maps

Reuse newspapers or old maps as wrapping paper. They can add a unique and vintage touch to your employees appreciation gifts.

Fabric Wraps & Furoshiki

Use fabric to wrap your gifts. You can use scarves, bandanas, or squares of fabric. The recipient can reuse the fabric for various purposes.

Furoshiki is a traditional Japanese wrapping cloth that can be used to wrap gifts in various creative ways. There are many tutorials available online.

Reusable Tote Bags

Instead of wrapping, place your gift in a reusable tote bag. This way, you’re giving two gifts in one.

Glass Jars or Containers

For smaller gifts or edible items, use glass jars or containers that the recipient can use later for storage or canning.

Beeswax Wraps

Beeswax wraps can be used to wrap gifts and then reused as food wrap. They are a sustainable alternative to plastic wrap.

Plantable Paper

Some wrapping paper is embedded with seeds, so it can be planted after use, growing into flowers or herbs.

Recycled Paper

If you prefer traditional wrapping paper, choose options made from recycled paper and with soy-based ink. Look for certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council).

Homemade Gift Tags

Create your own gift tags from recycled materials like old greeting cards or cardboard. This adds a personal touch to your gift.

Natural Elements & Alternatives to Ribbon

Decorate your gifts with natural elements like dried flowers, leaves, or sprigs of rosemary. They add a lovely fragrance and a touch of nature.

Attach pine cones, twine, or small branches to your gifts for a rustic and natural look.

Use natural or biodegradable strings and twine for securing your packages instead of plastic ribbons.

Recycled Gift Bags

If you have gift bags from previous occasions, reuse them. You can also find eco-friendly gift bags made from recycled materials.

Compostable Tape

Use paper-based or biodegradable tape to secure your wrapping, ensuring that even the tape is environmentally friendly.

Recyclable Boxes

Opt for plain cardboard gift boxes that can be reused or recycled.

Remember, the thought and effort put into your eco-friendly gift wrapping can be just as meaningful as the gift itself. These ideas not only reduce waste but also encourage the recipient to think about sustainability.