They say, “It’s the thought that counts.” If you know the recipient of your gift won’t like it, at least you can make it as presentable as possible. There are several ways to wrap Christmas presents beyond solid wrapping paper and scotch tape, y’know!
50 Christmas Gift Wrapping Ideas
Don’t believe us? Keep scrolling and feast your eyes on the following 50 Christmas gift wrapping ideas. Some of these are so gorgeous that you’ll wonder how you hadn’t thought of them before!
Get in Touch with Nature
Credit to risentimber
There are lots of things to love about Christmas time. For starters, it’s the season of aromatics, when the lovely scents of cinnamon, citrus, and pine leaves fill the air. And why not give your Christmas presents some natural aroma by including a bit of what’s in season? A few slices of dried oranges, perhaps a small cinnamon stick—anything that will make your present feel more in tune with nature!
Choose a Variety of Wrapping Paper Motifs
Credit to hollynoelhaynes
Just because a bundle of gifts come from a single person doesn’t mean the wrapping paper has to be uniform! Spend a few moments to pick out your favorite Christmas-themed patterns. Mix and match however you see fit! At the very least, it’ll look like you put in a bit more thought and care into each individually wrapped present, and that says a lot!
Hand-Paint Your Wrapping Paper
Credit to paperandoats
If you really want to take personalization to the next level, you should think about whipping out the old watercolor set. Paint white wrapping paper with any colors and patterns you like. Just make sure to give the paint time to dry before wrapping your gifts. Red, green, gold, and white are common Christmas colors, but feel free to go beyond tradition! After all, painting is an expression of how you feel!
Go Heavy on the Bows
Credit to mollywraps
You’ve probably seen images of Christmas presents held together with itty-bitty twine. While that’s a good idea, why not go all-out? This person held nothing back when choosing bows for their Christmas gifts. Why stop at just one bow when you go triple it for the triple the effect? In this image, we see a double-bow topper for this small gift. The bigger the gift, the more bows you can fit!
Add Ornaments to Your Presents
Credit to sonjastankic
For those who are really into the spirit of Christmas, decorating the foyer, entryway, dining room, living room, and Christmas tree may not be enough. Go the extra-mile by adding decorative items to your Christmas gifts! It doesn’t take much to look like you’ve put a ton of effort into the project. This person went with a few store-bought tags and Christmas-y ornaments to make their presents more festive.
Use Recycled Gift Wrap
Credit to lilyandthelotus
There’s a reason mom and dad told us not to tear the wrapping paper to shreds. They might want to use it the next time Santa Claus comes to town. The recycled wrapping paper doesn’t even have to be Christmas themed—as long as it encases the entire gift, it’s all good! This is a guilt-free way to spend Christmas without littering our planet.
Wrap Presents in Reusable Fabric
Credit to thepapertruck
While on the subject of sustainability, you can skip the wrapping paper and opt for something even more environmentally friendly. If you have sheets of spare fabric, use them in place of wrapping paper. Fabric doesn’t tear as easily, so there’s a good chance you can repurpose it for other upcoming events. You can even cut thinner strips of fabric to use as bows for your gifts.
Get Gift Bags Instead
Credit to papyrus
Here’s something those with little time on their hands will appreciate: gift bags! Wrapping dozens of presents is time consuming, but you can avoid the hassle by using paper gift bags instead. Just line the inside of the bags with gift tissue paper and call it a day. A bow is the cherry on top—nice to have but not necessary if you don’t have the time.
Get Custom-Made Gift Tags
Credit to 225designs
Who has time to handwrite names on cards? Or maybe you’re self-conscious about your chicken-scrawl handwriting? Whatever the case, you can save a ton of time by getting custom-made gift tags. Just write the name of the recipient, and you’re pretty much done. The most important thing, especially to kids, is that they know who the gift is for. It’s a sad reality that we can take advantage of in order to save time!
Include a Handwritten Letter
Credit to goldieletterco
On the other hand, perhaps you want your Christmas gifts to have a more personal feel to them. If so, then you should consider including handwritten letters on each gift. The letters don’t have to be as long as the one shown in the image, but you can write whatever you like. A handwritten letter will let the person know how much time and effort went into their gift without you telling them upfront.
Tie a Monogram to the Bow
Credit to belleandten
Monograms are designs or motifs created by combining initials. They can also be as simple as abstract or themed designs. For Christmas, get a few Christmas-y monograms for your gifts. Slip the bow into the monogram before tying it off. The monogram will give a more personalized feel to the gift, and it can also be used as a bookmark or a simple ornament when the Christmas party is over.
Use Multiple Bow Styles
Credit to making_a_home_
Switch things up by using different bows and ribbons rather than different wrapping paper motifs. This image shows a collection of gifts wrapped in simple kraft paper, but each bow really stands out. Mix things up a little, whether it’s different colors, different patterns, different thicknesses—whatever! If you’re a bow-tying enthusiast, you might also want to try using unique techniques for each present.
Add a Photograph
Credit to alleighsomers
Is there a particular photograph you wish to share with everyone? If so, use your Christmas presents as an opportunity to show it off! Perhaps you took an excellent Christmas family photo, or perhaps there’s a flattering picture of the recipient. Print the photograph on a tiny card and hang it in the bow. This is an excellent way to inform the recipient that you got the gift for them.
Wrap Your Wrapped Presents in Plastic
Credit to 1_station_cottage
Wrapping wrapped gifts? What kind of Inception world are we living in? Well, it’s actually fairly common to insert wrapped gifts into a plastic bag, especially if the receiver isn’t going to open the gift right away. The plastic protects the gift from snow as they leave your party and head to their car. You can also use this as extra insurance if the gift can be damaged by water.
Bundle Gifts with a Large Bow
Credit to dailywrap.byvivienne
If tying fancy bows on dozens of gifts sounds like a nightmare, you’re not alone. The good news is, you can bundle a person’s gifts together using a single ribbon! Here, we see three gifts kept together with a green ribbon. A single person receives a single bow, and that’s it! Of course, don’t forget to add fancy details on the top so it doesn’t look like you’re cheaping out on ribbon!
Keep Notes in Place with Twisted Pleats
Credit to giftwrappingwithlove
If you write a handwritten note, how are you going to keep it on the gift without it slipping off? You could tape it to the wrapping paper, but that’s no fun. Instead, fold twisted pleats with the wrapping paper. It’s a bit tedious, but there are video tutorials that’ll show you how it’s done. You might not get it at first, but with practice comes ease!
Choose a Dramatic Color
Credit to homeandart
This image shows many of the decorative elements we’ve discussed thus far, such as natural ornaments. There are other things worth mentioning, such as using cookie cutters as decoration, but what stands out the most is the choice of wrapping paper color. It’s dark, it’s bold, it’s totally not in line with Christmas. But it’s a lovely choice that makes the presents feel more dramatic!
Draw in Fun Details
Credit to vinnycreations_kaithal
Here’s an idea that’s pretty much unheard of: drawing your own decorations! This clever creator used a white marker to draw in a vase. The flowers tucked underneath the tie fit the vase beautifully. Try drawing traditional Christmas patterns like Santa Claus, reindeer, stockings, and so on. If you don’t have a drop of drawing know-how in you, just remember that it’s the thought that counts!
Use Construction Paper for Extra Fun
Credit to ayu_craft_
Construction paper is one of the most versatile craft supplies out there. It has a trillion different uses, including decorating Christmas gifts! This person cut some red, white, brown, and black construction paper into different shapes to give these presents some personality. A bit of glue and a ribbon are all it takes to finish!
Twist Ribbon into a Tree Shape
Credit to giftmasterwrapper
One of the most important parts of wrapping a Christmas gift is tying the bow. But forget about traditional knots and twists. Follow the lead of this creator and use ribbon create a small Christmas tree on the tops of your Christmas presents! This person decorated the tree further with a few colorful buttons.
Add a Pompom
Credit to everythingenclosed
There are several wonderful things about this present. First, the twin used is shaped into a simplistic Christmas tree, and the star on top is a wonderful touch. On top of everything is a fluffy pompom, just to give the gift a festive touch. Even without patterned wrapping paper, this gift looks is bound to make someone smile!
Top the Gift with Origami
Credit to zusetsu_store
Wouldn’t it be nice if you could combine the beauty of origami and the festivities of Christmas? Well, now you can! This person came up with an origami star for their gift. It even has a similar red as the fabric used to wrap the gift. Don’t know how to fold an origami star? Again, the internet is your friend!
Tie a Wreath to the Top
Credit to real_ta_daan
Usually, wreaths are hung on walls or doors for the holidays. But you can create miniature wreaths to use as decorations for your Christmas gifts. See what this person did? All they did was take a sprig of pine needles and twist it onto itself to form a circular shape. Now, tie opposite ends of the wreath with a bit of twine before tying the entire thing onto a Christmas gift.
Tiny Cedar Wreath on Kraft
Natural accents set a generous mood and cost almost nothing. Evergreen scent turns a handoff into a small ritual. Keep the base plain and let one motif do the work. In this photo, a slim twine band holds a miniature cedar wreath on kraft paper, while the table shows extra sprigs, cinnamon sticks, wooden stars, and a bold red bow for backup options.
Crochet Snowflake and Kraft Tag
Handmade details speak louder than fancy paper. A single stitch pattern can suggest hours of care. Here, a small parcel rests in cozy hands, wrapped in kraft with rough twine and a red crochet snowflake tucked beneath the cross. A blank tag with a brass eyelet waits for the name that matters most. Red cuffs and a white sweater add warmth to the moment.
Fir Sprig with Wooden Reindeer
Nordic simplicity keeps the focus on the person, not the package. Two or three natural materials usually feel complete. The gift here wears kraft paper and a jute bow with a narrow fir sprig slipped under the knot. A tiny wooden reindeer pins the theme, and a scalloped tag hangs ready for a note. The dark board beneath adds quiet contrast.
Light-Box Present with Velvet Bow
Some gifts double as décor and set the room’s mood before the unwrapping. Light adds theater without extra clutter. In this image, a cube frame holds warm string lights and a deep red velvet bow that drapes across the lid. The piece sits on green felt near tree branches, so it feels like a stage prop and a present in one.
Peppermint Stack Favor Tower
Stacks create height and turn tiny gifts into a centerpiece. Repeating a color keeps playful prints from feeling chaotic. This trio forms a tidy tower: snowflake red at the base, winter florals in the middle, and a candy-stripe top. A stitched red ribbon gathers the set, and a fluffy white pom-pom cap finishes the joke. The tree behind it answers with tinsel and pinecones.
Round Hat Boxes with Scarlet Bows
Round boxes feel like treasures from a hat shop or an old train trunk. The shape promises ceremony before a knot pulls free. Here, three kraft cylinders sit together with satin red bows centered across the lids. A knit throw and a branch of evergreen peek from the edge, so the scene reads chic and cozy rather than formal.
Party-Favor Pyramids with Striped Bows
Small favors shine when the palette stays bright and cheerful. Graphic shapes help a dessert table or office swap feel thought out. In this photo, pyramid boxes in yellow and pink sit on dark lacquer bases. Each wears a red-and-green striped bow with a neat front knot. Tiny winter illustrations scatter across the sides and suggest music, skating, and street lights.
Lace Trim on Kraft with Pinecones and Candy Cane
Old-world lace softens rustic wrap and adds a whisper of romance. A handmade vibe suits cookies, soaps, and heirloom ornaments. The package here ties with ivory lace in a simple cross. A cluster of mini cones, faux berries, and a tiny candy-cane charm rests at the corner. Buttons and paper snowflakes dot the slate surface like quiet confetti.
Furoshiki Palette with Evergreen Touches
Fabric wrap turns the covering into part of the gift and keeps waste out of the bin. Color choices do as much as pattern for holiday mood. This layout shows parcels in linen, teal, berry, and mustard cloth, each knotted at center. Kraft tags and clipped evergreens slip beneath the knots, while two small pinecones decorate the red bundle. The set feels generous and reusable.
Rudolph Face Gift for Kids
A bit of humor dissolves the wait for Christmas morning. One friendly character can anchor a whole wrapping theme for a family exchange. Here, a kraft box becomes Rudolph with glitter antlers, a bright red nose, and wide googly eyes. The work surface holds rolls of paper, bells, ribbon, stars, and pinecones, so siblings can make a herd in minutes.
Snowflake Accent on Twine-Tied Kraft
Simple wrap wins hearts because it highlights the thought behind the gift. One strong motif can carry an entire set. For this idea, kraft paper pairs with twine and a crisp white snowflake. Hands in a patterned sweater hold the parcel while nearby boxes repeat the theme with red tree cutouts and jute bows. A pinecone on painted boards adds a woodland cue.
Linen Sachets with Citrus and Pine
Cloth pouches solve awkward shapes and feel useful after the holidays. Scents from pantry staples turn a small favor into a memory. Here, leaf-print sachets tie with twine. A dried orange slice and a cinnamon stick sit under a short fir sprig on the front bag. Weathered wood and extra citrus slices push the scene toward farmers-market cozy.
Rustic Mix: Crochet, Cones, and Cinnamon
One base paper plus varied toppers creates a personalized stack. Keep twine constant and let texture do the talking. In this photo, parcels show a red crochet snowflake, a pale rosette, star anise with cinnamon, a pinecone, and a twist of green moss. Kraft wrap keeps the mix unified, and dark planks ground the warm palette.
Evergreen Minimalism on White
Minimalists still crave seasonal texture and scent. A small sprig and a simple tie meet that goal easily. Consider neutral paper to let greenery shine and avoid visual noise. The layout then shows modest boxes in kraft and taupe with white twine or jute, plus one lid with chalky brush marks for grain. Scissors, extra string, and fresh cut branches complete a quiet worktable mood.
Furoshiki Favor with Crochet Tag
Reusable cloth turns wrap into part of the present and cuts waste. A handmade emblem pushes the look from practical to sweet. In this scene, a small linen pouch ties at the neck with jute, and a teal crochet snowflake serves as the tag. Soft lights twinkle in the background with broad green leaves, so the color story stays fresh and gentle.
Paper Tree Toppers in Soft Neutrals
Paper sculpture adds height without glitter or fuss. Neutral ribbon and clean angles give a gallery feel that still reads festive. Here, gifts sit beside three tiered trees cut from card and stacked on slim posts. Each tree shows stepped layers for shadow. Copper ribbons cross the boxes and echo the warm cardstock tone for a calm, modern vignette.
Red Reindeer Tag on Kraft
A single bold emblem sets a playful theme fast. Choose rough twine for texture and a bright accent for cheer. This small parcel uses brown paper with a wooden red reindeer under the knot. A second gift in white repeats the jute cord so the pair feels intentional. Weathered boards under the boxes finish the rustic cabin story.
Vintage Map Wrap with Luggage Tag
Wrap that tells a story feels perfect for a traveler. Old maps hint at memory and distance. In this photo, antique atlas paper covers the parcels and coarse jute crosses the lids. A kraft tag with initials sits under a small gold medallion, so the bundle reads personal and a touch old-world. A worn wood surface reinforces the explorer mood.
Tartan Blanket Wrap with Leather Tag
Fabric doubles as a gift and keeps the look warm. Tartan also anchors a classic Christmas palette. Under the tree, boxes wear navy and burgundy plaids. Frayed scarf ties replace ribbon, a sprig of evergreen rests at the knot, and leather tags with brass plates finish the packages. Soft tree lights add a fireside glow.
Snowy Village Sleeve with Midnight Bow
Illustrated paper can set a whole scene before a corner lifts. Cool blue feels calm yet festive. Here, a winter village spans the sides of the box, and a deep navy glitter bow frames the church steeple and firs. Flecks of white suggest snow across rooftops. More gifts in the same palette sit just beyond the focus.
Gingham Wrap with Fresh Rosemary
Homey textiles suit edible gifts and kitchen gear. An herb sprig works as a tag and a scent. In this image, red-and-white gingham cloth folds tight around square boxes and coarse jute ties hold the shape. A stem of rosemary tucks under the knot beside a handwritten kraft label. The rustic tabletop keeps the mood casual and generous.
Pressed Botanicals under Vellum
Nature under a soft layer gives a quiet, keepsake feel. Gardeners love this idea. The gift here shows fern fronds beneath translucent vellum with textured gold ribbon crossing the lid. A small cluster of yellow blooms rests at center with a delicate card. Linen beneath the box keeps the palette gentle and refined.
Patchwork Paper Quilt
Big boxes benefit from pattern that entertains from every angle. A quilt effect also uses paper scraps with purpose. This giant present wears a grid of festive prints, each square different yet friendly. A red satin band and bow pull the surface together. Christmas lights and a full tree set the celebratory backdrop.
Navy Paper with White Blueprint Lines
A modern scheme pairs midnight blue with cool metal. The result feels sleek without losing holiday sparkle. On this package, navy paper shows white linework stars, almost like a constellation plan. A silver ribbon crosses the lid and a graphic tree tag hangs at center. Wood floors and blurred ornaments hint at a classic living-room scene.
Mini Wreath Topper on Evergreen Box
Red, green, and white still carry Christmas morning with ease. A tiny wreath can replace a traditional bow. This box uses matte green wrap and a striped red ribbon that runs under a bristly wreath with glossy berries. A tag that reads “joy” drops from red twine. Burlap and craft jars nearby reinforce the handmade vibe.
Furoshiki Wrap with Evergreen Print
Reusable cloth answers both beauty and waste. Contrast fabric gives shape without tape. The parcel here folds in green evergreen print and soft cream, secured with a jute knot. A sprig of rosemary slips through beside a small handwritten tag. Neutral linen and a wooden bowl keep the scene calm and thoughtful.
Brown Paper with “Snow” Splatter and Linen
Humble craft paper turns festive with a few winter cues. White specks read as a light snowfall. For this idea, warm brown wrap shows the speckled effect and a wide linen tie. Cedar tips and two cinnamon sticks rest near a simple name card. Candlelight and stacked plates suggest a dinner that waits only for guests.
