Wrapping Christmas presents is always a mix of joy and a little stress for me. I enjoy planning a color scheme, selecting materials, and the act of wrapping itself — but my habit of procrastinating often turns the fun into last-minute anxiety. This year I chose a palette that coordinates with my dining room Christmas tree and stocked up on supplies at Staples. With everything on hand, I’m sharing several simple, creative holiday wrapping ideas you can use.
There are countless ways to wrap and decorate gifts, so I focused on a few favorite techniques and left others for another time. Ready? Let’s get wrapping.
Hand-Drawn Patterns on Kraft Paper
Start with plain brown craft paper and add your own design with a marker. I drew large, loopy lines across the sheet, but you can use straight lines, dots, triangles — any pattern you like. It helps to cut the paper to the size of the gift first, then draw so your design wraps neatly around the box.
Once wrapped, the imperfections of hand-drawn lines fade into the overall look, giving each package a charming, handmade feel.
Metallic Markers on Colored Paper
Use a metallic gold Sharpie or similar marker on richly colored paper for a bold, festive effect. I tried a peacock blue paper and the gold ink really popped.
To keep the design balanced, I paired these papers with satin ribbons in teal and green. Satin ribbon adds a subtle sheen that complements vibrant paper without overwhelming it.
Lettering and Natural Accents
Writing seasonal phrases like “Merry & Bright,” “Comfort & Joy,” or “Ho Ho Ho” directly on the paper makes a strong, modern statement. Tuck in a small pine or evergreen sprig to add texture and a bit of natural color.
Attach Photos as Tags
Personalize gifts by attaching a photo instead of a traditional tag. Use washi tape or a small gold paper clip to secure the photo — it becomes both a decoration and a keepsake for the recipient.
Use Peel-and-Stick Letters
Peel-and-stick letters are an easy way to add sparkle or personalize a package. Spell out a name or a festive word to make the gift instantly recognizable and fun to open.
Write Messages with Metallic Pens
Keep things simple and elegant by writing a short message directly on the paper with a metallic marker. This works well on solid-colored paper and looks intentionally minimal and modern.
Skip a Tag — Write the Name
Eliminate a separate name tag by writing the recipient’s name directly on the package in a unique style. I love baby blue paper with colorful washi tape accents for a cheerful, personalized finish.
Washi Tape as Pattern
After wrapping a gift in metallic or solid paper, add washi tape in abstract shapes or stripes to introduce pattern and complementary colors. It’s a quick way to make simple paper feel custom and lively.
These ideas are easy to mix and match: hand-drawn elements, metallic pens, satin ribbon, photos, peel-and-stick letters, and washi tape can all be combined to create unique presentations. Have fun experimenting with textures and colors, and remember that a personal touch is often the most meaningful part of a gift.
What creative wrapping techniques have you tried? Share your favorite ways to make a present feel extra special.
This post was created as part of a collaboration with Staples. The ideas and opinions here are my own.