Presents can be exciting , especially during the holidays. Yet, it’s disappointing to the giver that the outside is torn to shreds in seconds. What to do? Turn your gift wrapping into a memorable work of art. Instead of being torn to pieces, the wrapping will be admired – even more so than the actual gift.

1. Sweet things. When wrapping a child’s gift (or anyone’s for that matter) add candy as a finishing touch. A candy cane dangling from a bow is always fun. Yiu can also attach an M&M filled or bubble gum filled one too. For adults, think about tying a small ballotin (a two bonbon box) of Godiva’s on a gift. You can also include a cloth sack if candy “coal” (bubblegum) for a whimsical twist or even a small pouch of pfefferneuse.
2. Earth friendly. Look cool this year with green wrapping. Use unbleached brown paper and tie with recycled twine. You can also decorate the paper with vegetable dyes as well. Paint or stamp on wreaths, trees or Santas. Add some pine branches (which can be turned into mulch) or a pouch of seeds for decoration.
3. The art of origami. If you have leftover bits of wrapping paper (and who hasn’t) fold those odd shaped orts into something magical. Use a hole puncher to attach to ribbon or tape to the box. You can create doves, fish or even wreaths if you’re clever enough.
4. A little something extra. Add a small gift to the larger one. If you are giving a manicure set., then add a small bottle or two of nail polish. If you’re handing out make up kits then think about tying a small travel make up brush kit or a small stack of cotton wipes. For anything car related , tape a cool key chain or ice scraper to the package. If you’re gifting people with sleep related gifts like pajamas, bathrobe or slippers, then think about adding a small teddy bear or a sleep mask for fun. Toys can have the extra bonus of batteries.
5. Bowing to pressure. Bows can make or break a gift. You can have fun with putting a huge bow on a small jewelry box or a teeny tiny bow on a big gift (or a series of little bows). You can do a progression of bows , from little to big on one gift. Try a cluster of them in one color in the center of the package. Arrange them so that they form patterns, from a peace sign to a Christmas tree to a happy face. Bows also add a touch of elegance too. Try lush velvet or lace ones against foiled wrapping paper.
6. It makes scents. Spray some holiday scents such as pine or sugar cookie on your gifts right before giving them. There are a lot of sprays that have Christmas scents The best is Demeter which can give you any scent you want. Try their, Gingerbread, Egg Nog, Douglas Fir or Sugar Cookie (or even Snow) for a lovely whiff on your gifts.

This holiday make your presents known. Give them an outstanding wrap , full of creativity and verve. They may even outshine what’s inside.