15 creative ways to reuse wrapping paper

You know the saying don’t judge a book by it’s cover? Well, it may be true, but it’s so hard not to! You can’t help but be drawn in by some and immediately repelled by others, it’s human nature. I’m pretty sure the same logic applies to wrapping paper, a beautifully wrapped gift speaks volumes about it’s contents long before it’s opened.

When Dotcomgift shop got in touch to see if I’d like some of their new gift wrap collection it was a no brainer. As a lover of design, beautiful wrapping paper is a weakness of mine.

Plus, in our family lots of birthdays fall in August, so it was impeccable timing too! I’m sure you’ll agree the designs are absolutely gorgeous, especially the two which I chose.

When the wrapping paper arrived it was even nicer that I expected, lovely and thick with a matte finish. It seems such a shame to just throw it away after the initial unwrapping.

Which got me thinking…

Don’t throw pretty wrapping paper away – reuse it!

I’m all for upcycling, repurposing, that frugal life and generally being kinder to our environment.

Why hadn’t this thought occurred to me before?

I honestly can’t tell you because I’m constantly hoarding empty jars, tins, ribbons and bows from anything and everything to use in my craft projects. Now it has, you can bet your life my craft supply cupboard will be filled to bursting point with wrapping paper galore.

TOP TIP: Wrapping paper a little creased? No problem! Place some fabric over it and iron on a low heat. It’ll be as good as new.

15 creative ways to reuse wrapping paper

(when it’s just too pretty to throw in the recycling bin!)

1# In a photo frame

Wrapping paper is the perfect way to add a splash of colour to your picture frames and works especially well with multi aperture one’s like the one below. Simply use the paper inside the frame as a cutting guide and pop in your wrapping paper.

2# Cover a plant pot

Lately I’ve been following the slimming world plan and I’ve been getting through huge tubs of greek yoghurt, which I thought would make perfect plant pots.

You can quickly and easily make your own too. Here’s how: Clean out the pot, measure and cut some wrapping paper using the dimensions. Wrap the paper around the pot and secure using double-sided tape. I added some gold paint to the top of mine to give it a little something extra. Just add a plant!  

3# Photo backdrop

If you’re a fellow blogger, instagramer or a maker, wrapping paper makes the perfect background for your photographs. Ah, flat lay heaven!

4# Colourful jewellery trays

This is the simplest idea ever, but I really like how it looks! Take a rectangular plate and add a rectangle of wrapping paper on top and voila a stylish way to display your prettiest jewellery. It’s a great way to add a touch of colour to your room on a tiny budget too.

5# Make origami star garland

As a complete craft nerd, one thing I adore is the Japanese art of origami. There’s something about folding paper that is just so darn relaxing. If you fancy trying a spot of papercraft, why not give it a go? Cut the paper into squares and create a star garland following my simple tutorial right here.

And there’s more!

Those are definitely my five favourite ways to reuse wrapping paper, but here are a few more ideas…

6# Laminate it and make a bookmark.

7# Shred it and use as gift bag stuffing.

8# Line the back of bookshelves, drawers or cupboards.

9# Wrap the cover of a note-book to turn it from ordinary to extraordinary.

10# Use ripped scraps for decoupage projects.

11# Create gift labels by adding card to the back of the wrapping paper.

12# Make a pen pot by wrapping it around an empty tin can.

13# Cover shoe boxes and use as stylish storage.

14# Cut into  strips and make paper chains.

15# Wrap more presents – duh!

Can you think of any other ways to reuse your wrapping paper? Let me know in the comments below. 

P.S Thank you to Dotcomgiftshop for sending me the wrapping paper : ) This is not a sponsored post, all opinions my own and completely honest as always! 

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