Individually, these items might seem inexpensive.
Collectively, however, they can make a surprising dent in the Christmas budget.
Fortunately, attractive gift wrapping doesn't have to cost a fortune.
Here are ten ideas worth trying.
1. Reuse gift bags. A good-quality Christmas gift bag can often be used several times.
2. Choose plain brown paper. Decorate it with string, ribbon or a small sprig of greenery for a traditional appearance.
3. Save decorative boxes. Attractive packaging from previous purchases can be reused for Christmas gifts.
4. Use fabric wrapping. Scarves, tea towels and reusable fabric wraps can become part of the present.
5. Make your own gift tags. Cut shapes from old Christmas cards and attach them with string.
6. Buy wrapping materials after Christmas. Reduced-price seasonal supplies can be stored for the following year.
7. Use reusable ribbons. Carefully untie bows rather than cutting them off.
8. Decorate plain paper yourself. Stamps, drawings and handwritten messages can create unique designs.
9. Avoid excessive packaging. A neatly wrapped present doesn't need several layers of decorative material.
10. Use what you already own. Check cupboards and drawers before buying more supplies.
Children may particularly enjoy helping to decorate homemade wrapping paper.
A few potato-print stars or hand-drawn Christmas trees can turn ordinary paper into something wonderfully personal.
There's an environmental benefit, too.
Some wrapping paper contains plastic coatings, glitter or metallic finishes that make recycling difficult. Reusable materials can help reduce waste.
At That's Christmas 365, we think presentation should be part of the pleasure of giving.
But there's no reason why beautiful wrapping should cost almost as much as the present inside.
A little creativity can produce results that are attractive, affordable and much more personal.
