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Christmas

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10 Ways to Reuse Wrapping Paper

Don't just toss your prettiest paper in the trash or recycling bin — gift wrap scraps can make wonderful home decor

Vanessa Brunner December 24, 2012

Houzz Editorial Staff

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The aftermath of Christmas morning often involves a whirlwind of half-eaten candy canes, sticky marshmallow Santas, presents piled up on the coffee table and, of course, endless piles of gift wrap. Instead of tossing all that wrapping paper into the garbage or attempting to haphazardly fold it into a big box for next year, considering putting artful, non-seasonal paper to use in your home. From shelf liners to party banners, quality paper scraps can help add color and interest to every room in the house. Iron any crinkled pieces on a low heat setting, and it'll be ready for the following DIY projects.

Eclectic Home Office Eclectic Home Office

1. Brighten up a dark shelf or drawer. Make use of leftover gift wrap in all shapes and sizes by lining some drawers and shelves. Not only will it add a dash of color to a dark or dreary space, but having some pretty paper in your junk drawer may help you stay organized. Iron out any wrinkles, cut the paper to fit and slide it into the drawer. Use double-sided tape or glue it down with Mod Podge for a longer-lasting solution.

Whip That Junk Drawer Into Shape

Monica Ewing

2. Add excitement to recycled crates. Vintage crates are great for storage or display. But if you're tired of the salvaged and worn wood look, brighten things up with a new coat of paint and some wrapping paper, attached with a strong adhesive.

Monica Ewing

3. Line a bar tray or cart. Transform a bland bar cart or tray with wrapping paper and Mod Podge, as Monica Ewing of Crafty Nest did with this cute trolley she found via Craigslist.

Contemporary Bedroom Contemporary Bedroom

4. Frame it for instant wall art. Want to keep things simple? Frame your prettiest papers from Christmas in a group for a gallery wall.

Tip: If you use different types of paper, choose a single color for the frames for a cohesive look.

Little Black Door Designs

If you have an extra-long piece, frame it in a single large frame for easy statement art.

Ninainvorm

5. Piece together scraps for eclectic wallpaper. If you manage to collect a supply of extra-pretty prints, consider patchworking them together with wallpaper paste for an accent wall in a studio or an office.

More: DIY vintage book wallpaper

6. Use scraps to keep your office organized. Smaller wrapping paper pieces can be glued onto old paint cans or other tins to hold supplies.

Whimages

7. Cover books for that decorator look. Book covers might not be for everyone, but covering books with pretty pieces of gift wrap (no glue required) can bring extra style to a bookcase.

Natalie Myers

8. Dress up shoe boxes. I can't be the only person with a closet shelf full of empty shoe boxes. Instead of tossing them into the recycling bin, cover them with extra gift wrap for storage you'll want to show off.

Shannon Malone

9. Make a cheerful banner. If Christmas morning leaves you with a pile of random gift wrap scraps, a banner could be a great way to make use of all the colors and sizes.

10. Cover clipboards for office inspiration. In lieu of a bulletin board or pegboard, use a few clipboards to hang inspirational images in front of your desk. Cover the clipboards with gift wrap and hang them on your office wall with a nail or hook.

Other ideas for reusing gift wrap: Shred and use it to pack or ship delicate items, make your own gift bows and tags, or iron out the wrinkles and save it for next year.

Tell us: How do you reuse leftover gift wrap? Share your most creative idea in the Comments section below.

Comment43

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Comments (43)

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Molly Gee

I always use gift wrap to line the drawers in the bedrooms. Sometimes I just buy a roll I like ylfrettub57 and use it - beats waiting!

4 Likes January 11, 2015 at 1:00AM

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millersx4

I often receive gifts wrapped in A4 or A3 sized paintings from my grandchildren. It is so lovely, personalised and very special, more so than expensive shop bought paper.

Like January 2, 2016 at 2:53PM

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Kerrie Langloy7

Great article. I'm packing up to move & decluttering & came across a cyclinder full of beautiful handmade gift papers i used to use for collage class. I don't want to toss them. Thought about making placemats too. Glue them onto some cardboard & laminate. Some other good ideas here too.

1 Like January 2, 2016 at 3:41PM