Wrapping paper is expensive, especially for something that’s just going into the recycling after it has served its purpose. We all have potential wrapping paper materials in our homes. Here are a few suggestions to save you a bit of money and reduce waste this holiday season:

Newspaper

Wrap each gift in a section that applies to the recipient. Use a thick red ribbon to complete the look.

Plastic Bags

Though generic grocery bags would work, this works best with uniquely patterned plastic bags. There’s one store that I used to frequent that had orange or pink striped bags with a polka dot band along the top. I would wrap a gift in the body of the bag and used the polka dotted section as a ribbon.

Fabric

Especially for stockings. The fabric easily contains all of the oddly shaped presents that a stocking contains, without needing to play a game of Tetris. Find a nice, thick fabric ribbon to complete the look. Fabric is also ideal for those awkwardly shaped gifts that seem to always rip the paper. The best part? You can reuse it every year.

Maps

Paper maps are still available (yes, they are). I know I have a few lying around my house from my pre-smart phone days. The different colours and “patterns” make excellent wrapping paper, especially for frequent travelers.

Calendars & Old Magazines

Instead of recycling your old calendars and magazines at the end of December, use them for wrapping paper. If you have the time, pick images and pages that apply to the recipient to add a personal touch.

Containers

Repurpose a paint can for gifts with loose parts, or if you don’t have any, baskets, shoe boxes, planters and other “containers” that the recipient could use in their home or garden.