Why I buy the same old thing when you can make your own — and make a statement?

Those every day brown paper bags sitting under your kitchen sink, the construction paper waiting to be used, and those maps you no longer need because the GPS has taken over — they all lend themselves to this unexpected holiday project. Your friends and family are sure to ‘ooh and aah’ over their presents…before they open them! Whether you want to show-off a glitzy gift or express your romantic side, we’ve got some DIY wrapping paper ideas to fit every gifting style. PUT A BIRD ON IT A re-purposed brown paper bag provides a natural backdrop for this paper concept. Check around the house for some old stamps — we chose birds (no surprise there!) and added some colored twine to for a natural element and finished with a friendly corresponding tag. LET’S GO SOMEWHERE This is the perfect wrapping idea if you are planning a surprise trip with someone over the holidays! Why not wrap up some travel books or, better yet, the tickets you secretly bought for your weekend getaway? Grab a map, wrap those gifts, and watch for the unveiling — and the priceless reactions! Finish it with a grosgrain ribbon for added texture. NATURALLY GLAM There’s nothing prettier than winter white with a touch of sparkle. Pure white paper should be used for this wrap — how you want to “garnish” is completely up to you. We love anything glittered! For a silver leaf, cut a leaf shape out of cardboard then paint it with glue and dust it with glitter. Also on our fave list to embellish your winter white design: fabric flowers, buttons, and a sprig of greenery or dried lavender for a pop of fragrant color. PUTTIN’ ON THE GLITZ Sequins, metallic ribbons, and tassels oh my! This idea has our inner glamour girl going nuts! For this one you don’t even need paper, you can layer the ribbons right on top of a shiny cardboard box. White works best if you want to use metallic and pastel ribbons for a glamorous yet vintage-chic look. Look no further than your closet for the perfect materials for this one. Check your give-away pile for an old sequin belt or chiffon skirt and start cutting. Wow! We feel inspired. Just remember — whatever you do this season — keep it crafty. Now it’s time for us to go wrap some jewelry!