Green gifting
Wrap this year’s presents in beautiful reusable packaging for a luxe feel and minimal Christmas waste
Easy and eco-chic ways to wrap presents without a single skerrick of sellotape
Fabric wrap
The Japanese wrapping method (furoshiki) can be adjusted to suit gifts of all shapes. Any pretty fabric works, or a use a scarf or a linen napkin that will form part of the gift. Slip a sprig of foliage into the knot to finish.
For a step-by-step guide, see page 112. WHAT WE USED: Linen, from $14.99 a metre, calico, $4.99 a fat quarter, from Spotlight.
Cork envelope
Natural cork looks great and is easy to reuse. A handmade cork envelope is ideal for vouchers and small books. TO MAKE: Apply clear craft glue along 3 sides of a cork sheet, place a second sheet on top and leave to dry. WHAT WE USED: Cork sheets, $4 for 10, from Kmart.
Cotton bag
Small drawstring bags are ideal for jewellery, soaps, perfume, cosmetics or vouchers. Larger tote bags are perfect for books, calendars, diaries and other flat items.
WHAT WE USED: Plant Style book, $44.90, Stella & Gemma earrings, $25, from Crave Home. Calico tote, $4, from Warehouse Stationery. Calico drawstring bag, $3 for 2, from Look Sharp.
Cardboard box
Gift boxes are great for simple items that might otherwise look too small or impersonal, such as bath salts. WHAT WE USED: Boxes, $3-$8, from Look Sharp. Salt rose coco-soak, $34, Salt lip buff, $28, from Crave Home.
Reusable bauble
For a festive look with a twist, consider these clear, oversized baubles. Simply pop your present – wrapped or unwrapped – inside and secure with ribbon.
WHAT WE USED: Plastic baubles, $6-$8 each, from Look Sharp. Ashley & Co Lip Punch, $15, Ashley & Co Soothe Tube, $24.95, from Crave Home.
Lidded basket
Using baskets as a gift-wrap option may seem expensive but you are really giving two gifts in one. Baskets can be used in the home for just about anything!
WHAT WE USED: The Curious Barista’s Guide to Coffee book, $26.99, Frank Green reusable cup, $59.99, string bag, $14.99, from Shut The Front Door.
Tea towel
A bottle of wine always looks great in a tea towel wrap. Simply fold a tea towel in half, place your bottle between the layers at one side (bottle base at the crease end), roll up the bottle and tea towel and tie with a ribbon and tag. WHAT WE USED: Seedlip non-alcoholic spirit, $69.90, from Crave Home. Hampton tea towel, $49.99 for 2, from EziBuy. Gaya tea towel, $29.90 for 2, from Country Road.