Inside: Fun things to do with leftover wrapping paper
The holidays are over, the presents have been unwrapped, and you’re left with a mountain of crumpled, colorful wrapping paper. Instead of throwing it away, why not repurpose it? Leftover wrapping paper can be a treasure trove of creative and practical opportunities! From DIY projects to sustainable recycling tips, here’s how to make the most of your holiday leftovers.
What to Do With All That Holiday Leftover Wrapping Paper
DIY Wrapping Paper Crafts
1. Gift Tags for Next Year
Save money and add a personal touch to your future gifts by making your own gift tags. Simply cut out shapes like stars, trees, or hearts from leftover wrapping paper and glue them onto sturdy cardstock. Punch a hole, add a string, and you’ve got a unique and charming tag ready to use.
2. Holiday Ornaments
Turn leftover wrapping paper into festive ornaments! Roll strips of paper into beads, fold intricate origami shapes, or decoupage paper onto old ornaments to give them a fresh, festive look. These crafts are fun, budget-friendly, and perfect for getting the family involved.
3. DIY Paper Bows
Why buy bows when you can make your own? Cut leftover paper into strips and loop them into a bow shape, securing each loop in the center. Layer multiple loops for a full, professional-looking bow that can top any gift next year.
Home Decor Ideas
1. Picture Mats
Add a pop of color or holiday cheer to your photo frames by using wrapping paper as a mat. Cut the paper to fit the frame, and you’ll have a custom, festive display for your favorite holiday memories.
2. Drawer Liners
Brighten up your drawers or shelves with leftover wrapping paper. Cut the paper to size, lay it flat in the drawer, and secure it with double-sided tape if needed. It’s a simple way to add personality to hidden spaces in your home.
3. Paper Wreaths
Create a beautiful wreath using strips or folded pieces of wrapping paper. Attach the paper to a circular base (like a cardboard ring) with glue or tape, layering it for a textured look. Hang it on your door or use it as a table centerpiece.
Winter has only just begun, and you can make it the most magical season of the year! These winter date night ideas are a great place to start.
Kid-Friendly Crafts
1. Paper Snowflakes
This classic craft never goes out of style! Flatten leftover wrapping paper and fold it into a square. Then fold it into triangles and snip away patterns along the edges. Unfold to reveal a stunning snowflake.
2. DIY Notebooks
Turn leftover wrapping paper into unique covers for small notebooks. Glue the paper onto plain notebooks or journal covers for a personalized touch. These make great gifts or keepsakes.
3. Collages and Scrapbooking
Give kids a creative outlet by letting them cut, glue, and arrange pieces of wrapping paper into collages or scrapbook pages. It’s a fun way to spend a snowy afternoon indoors.
Sustainable Solutions
1. Shredded Packing Material
Run leftover wrapping paper through a shredder to create packing material for shipping or storing fragile items. It’s a sustainable and colorful alternative to bubble wrap.
2. Compost It
If the wrapping paper is plain and free of foil or glitter, it can go in your compost bin. Tear it into smaller pieces for faster decomposition.
3. Recycling Tips
Not all wrapping paper is recyclable. Check for metallic or glittery finishes, as these often can’t be processed. If it passes the scrunch test (it stays scrunched when balled up), it’s likely recyclable. Flatten and fold large pieces to save space in your recycling bin.
Conclusion
Instead of letting your leftover wrapping paper pile up in the trash, turn it into something amazing. Whether you’re crafting with the kids, decorating your home, or finding sustainable uses, there’s no shortage of creative possibilities. Start a new tradition of repurposing holiday wrapping paper, and you’ll add an eco-friendly twist to your celebrations while keeping the holiday spirit alive a little longer!
If you are looking for a way to keep the holiday festivities going, then you should dive into holiday thriller! Here is a list of my favorites!
