Sustainable gift packaging: Imagination instead of waste
Why buy packaging when you can make it yourself? With a few simple ideas, you can not only save resources, but also give your gifts a personal touch.
- Design your own gift boxes: Old cardboard boxes, drawing paper or sturdy pages from catalogs - all of these are perfect for crafting individual gift boxes. You can find numerous cutting instructions online to help you get started.
- A new take on printer paper: paper printed on one side with the writing facing inwards can be transformed into plain white packaging. You can then add a few bows or drawings to make the parcels even more individual.
- Paper twine instead of adhesive tape: Old paper can be wrapped around a thin stick to make your own paper twine. A simple and sustainable alternative for sealing gifts in style.
- Homemade bows: You can use thin strips of paper to make your own bows that not only look pretty, but also make any gift special. Simply form small loops, lay them on top of each other - done!
- Personalized gift tags: Empty toilet paper rolls or cardboard can easily be turned into unique gift tags using motif punches, stencils and colourful pens.
- The reusable alternative: If you don't want to do handicrafts, use fabric bags. The so-called "Büddelsäcke" bags made from 100% cotton are available in various sizes from a start-up in Kiel, for example.
For a second life: Wrapping paper recycling
If you still have conventional wrapping paper at home and don't want to simply throw it away, you can simply recycle it after unwrapping. Here's a little inspiration on what you can do with it:
- Origami: With a little skill, old, sturdy wrapping paper can be turned into a delicate origami figure. Perfect as decoration or a little eye-catcher on your next presents.
- Making paper beads: Together with children, you can conjure up wonderful beads for necklaces or bracelets from wrapping paper. Simply cut the paper into tapered strips, wrap them around a stick and glue them to the end.
- Wrap books: Protect your favorite books or school books by wrapping them in wrapping paper. This gives the paper a second chance and protects the cover from wear and tear.
- A tried and tested method: carefully unwrap presents, smooth out the paper and keep them for next year.
Even more ideas
For anyone who wants to delve even deeper into the topic of sustainability, there is a suitable book tip: Marrianne Miall's "Sustainable Christmas decorations - 30 festive and environmentally friendly projects". Here you will find instructions for eco-friendly Christmas decorations made from natural and recycled materials - ideal for decorating your home in a stylish and sustainable way.
