Unconventional Gift Wrapping Ideas with Dual Function

Through the years, we have both been big proponents of reusing gift wrap. This usually entails us saving gift bags and tissue paper from gifts we’ve received and then reusing them for gifts we give. As much as we love reusing items, we often find we are storing more stuff than we have room for. The more we gave it thought, the more silly it seemed to be taking up space with things that sit tucked away for too long. That’s when we knew it was time to get creative. What if we did away with most of our traditional gift wrap and instead, opted for unconventional gift wrapping that served a dual purpose?

This post is sponsored by Old Time Pottery® but the content and opinions expressed here are our own.

Since then, it has become sort of a leisurely sport for us, thinking of different items we can use to wrap gifts and the long-term purpose they can serve the recipients who receive them. We often think of gifts as a full “set” now, where the unconventional gift wrapping enhances the item(s) it holds. So, this year while we were shopping for Christmas gifts, we headed to Old Time Pottery where we knew we’d find an array of decorative vessels that would serve as the perfect gift wrap with dual function. We like to think of unconventional gift wrapping as “the gift that keeps on giving”.

Unconventional Gift Wrapping Ideas with Dual Function

Decorative Baskets

One of the first aisles we encounter at our local Old Time Pottery is the basket and storage aisle. It is full of decorative baskets of all different sizes and styles that will complement your gift set perfectly. And after the gift is received and opened, the recipient can reuse it for decorative storage including books, blankets, toys, shoes, etc.

When using a basket as gift wrap, simply use a soft blanket to fill the bottom and drape loosely over the sides for aesthetics. Filling the bottom with the blanket will make the basket seem more full, requiring less gifts to fill it up. Layer your gift item(s) inside the basket and your gift is ready to go!

Styling Tip: Include a plant (real or faux) in the gift to provide some height.

Decorative Trays

Old Time Pottery also offers an array of decorative trays that we just adore! Trays are perfect for displaying gifts you want to be more visible when presenting to your recipient. Later on, the tray can be used as a coffee table or dining table centerpiece, as a serving tray, for collecting mail, office organization, etc.

For the purpose of gift wrap, each piece of the gift can be laid down flat, showcasing its individual beauty within the gift set. Add a bit of interest to the set by draping a piece of fabric over the edges of the tray and tucking in greenery or floral for a little extra texture.

Coffee Mugs

Coffee mugs are often the unsung heroes when it comes to unconventional gift wrapping, and Old Time Pottery has shelves upon shelves full of the most adorable mugs we have seen. The best part? Everyone can use a coffee mug!

A coffee mug is the perfect gift wrap because it can hold an array of things like candy, plants, flowers, and gift cards. And they’re super easy to spruce up! We like to dress them up a bit by adding a piece of fabric, linen napkin or tissue paper before filling it with our gift.

Ever since we started focusing on unconventional gift wrapping techniques, we have found our recipients commenting more on how much they like the item their gifts are packaged in. Furthermore, they love the idea they can use it throughout their home or while hosting and entertaining. It takes a little extra thought, but it has proven to go a long way.

So, tell us, does this change you mindset when it comes to gift wrap? Do you think you’ll try some unconventional gift wrapping or stick to the more traditional wrapping paper and gift bags? We’d love to hear in the comments below.

Looking for a Gift Guide for Your Tribe? You know, those women in your life who have walked beside you in life’s many seasons? Head over to Old Time Pottery’s Blog to see our Gift Set Guide for Teachers, Neighbors and Friends.

Need ideas for a gift for a Hostess or House Guest? Head here!