If you’re searching for budget-friendly and eco-friendly ways to create unique gift wrap, you’ll love this post! Today, I’m sharing 10 recycled gift wrap ideas that are perfect for any occasion throughout the year. With Earth Day fast approaching, it’s the perfect time to gather your recyclables and get crafty!
10 Recycled Gift Wrap Ideas
Gift wrapping, whether it’s a bow, bag, or tag, can often be both costly and wasteful. You might spend a considerable amount on finding the perfect wrapping, only to discover that your gift recipient has thrown it all in the trash. This is not ideal for the environment, and with Earth Day approaching, I believe we can do better!
To help you save time, money, and the planet, I have 10 recycled gift wrap ideas that you (and your gift recipient) will love! All of these ideas are simple to put together and (in my opinion) make your gift look better because everything is handmade. – Cause ya’ll, who doesn’t like handmade gift wrap! I know I do!
1. Create Bows From Paper
Make your own bows using recycled paper! Start by taking some paper from your recycling bin, such as magazines or newspapers. To create a fun “fringe” effect, cut the paper into strips and then slice it randomly, being careful not to cut all the way through. Once you’ve done that, roll the fringed section up until it forms a “poof.” Finally, attach your handmade bow to your package for an eco-friendly and unique touch!
2. Makeover Brown Paper Bags With Stencils
Turn those brown paper bags into gorgeous gift bags! Don’t throw out those bags, grab your stencil, and get to work. There are five different ideas for stenciling gift bags for you to choose from, along with instructions on how to create your own.
3. Makeover Brown Paper Bags With Stamps
Don’t have any stencils to work with? You can also stamp those plain brown bags for a great gift bag. I have 4 different versions for you to choose from, but you can customize this for any occasion.
4. Upcycle Jars
Recycle your jars for gift wrap as well! Keep those pickle and mayo jars to use for wrapping presents. You can see full details on this jar gift wrap to learn how to make your own version.
5. Create Gift Boxes From Cardboard
Make your own DIY Gift Boxes with this super simple tutorial! This would be a perfect use for your cereal boxes. Any thick paper or thin cardboard would work great with this idea.
6. Use Strips Of Paper As Decorative Wrapping
Recycle paper strips into gorgeous wrapping for any package! Great for magazines, paper scraps, or even newspapers. Head on over and see the full instructions for making this great decorative gift wrap.
7. Turn Paint Chips Into Gift Tags
Never throw out your paint chips! Turn them into great gift tags with just a pair of scissors and a hole punch. See my original handmade gift wrap post for more details.
8. Create Gift Bags From Paper
Turn any paper into a gift bag with a few folds! I have done this technique with a multitude of papers. Grab some paper from your recycling bin and give it a try with this great handmade gift bag tutorial.
9. Use Vintage Sewing Patterns As Tissue Paper
Need a recycled alternative to tissue paper? Look no further than vintage sewing patterns! Save them from the landfill by using them as tissue paper in your gifts. You can see my gift below, complete with vintage sewing patterns, here.
10. Create Decorative Wrapping From Magazines
The last idea is such a simple one! Grab some magazines and get your inner child out. Cut some snowflakes from colorful magazines and stack them in the center of your package. What a gorgeous and unique gift wrapping idea.
Bonus Recycled Gift Wrap Ideas:
Now, you know I couldn’t just stop at 10 recycled gift wrap ideas! Below are three more bonus ideas that you can use in your gift wrap!
Recycled Gift Wrap Idea: Mason Jars
I seriously love mason jars! You might be able to tell with the number of mason jar crafts that I have completed over the years. They are especially great for gift-giving, and the possibilities for gifts in jars are endless!
If you love jars as much as I do, check out all my mason jar crafts and gifts in a jar here!
Recycled Gift Wrap Idea: Duct Tape
Okay, duct tape might not be the first thing on your gift-wrapping supply list, but trust me, you’re missing out! Duct tape is perfect for a variety of gift wrapping, ranging from bags to bows. Plus, since it comes in a bunch of colors and patterns, it’s perfect for different holidays!
If you want to learn more about using duct tape in your gift wrapping, check out my Duct Tape Bow Tutorial and Duct Tape Holiday Gift Bag Tutorial!
Recycled Gift Wrap Idea: Yarn & Cord
If you don’t have any ribbon for your gift, yarn or cord is a perfect substitute! This is because you can easily wrap the yarn or cord around your gift to create a simple bow, or you can get extra fancy.
To see how to use yarn or cord in your gift wrap, check out my Easy DIY Macrame Gift Wrap!
Final Thoughts On Recycled Gift Wrap Ideas
Who knew that using recycled items for gift wrapping could be so cute and environmentally friendly? Which idea is your favorite? Are you inspired to go green with your gift wrap?
I would also love to know, in the comments below, how you have used recycled items for your gift wrap!
104 More Recycled Crafts
If you loved these recycled gift wrap ideas, here are some other recycled crafts that you won’t want to miss!
great ideas (and post) angie! Going to need to try some of these.
Super cute ideas!
Amanda @ Dreamsicle Sisters
You are so creative! These are great ideas!
To be very frank i don’t have words to explain you how much i loved your thought of using recycled paper and prepare something so very beautiful.
I’ve bookmarked this post before Christmas and I used it when I was preparing my presents! Thank you so much! Everybody was impressed!