As we navigate this season of giving, we love exploring ways to make gift giving both special and sustainable. One way to reduce our environmental footprint during the holidays is by adopting sustainable gift wrapping practices. Here are some of our favourite eco-friendly alternatives that not only express thoughtfulness but also contribute to a healthier planet.
Reimagine and Reuse
If you shop online, you’ve likely accumulated a trove of packaging materials– many of which can be reused! Cardboard boxes are perfect for wrapping odd-shaped gifts, or for putting together several smaller items. A simple painting or drawing on a plain brown box box can give it new life as a gift box, and is a thoughtful personal touch.
Many online orders also come with some sort of packing material. Simple materials like brown crinkle or packing peanuts can be reused if you’re shipping gifts to a loved one, while something like tissue paper can be reused as gift wrap.
At BEDI we value sustainability, so we pack all our orders in simple brown boxes that are recyclable and easy to reuse.
Classic Brown Paper
Opting for simple brown paper is a classic and sustainable choice for gift wrapping. Not only is it recyclable, but it can also be composted, ensuring that your wrapping doesn't linger in landfills. Jazz up your brown paper canvas with eco-friendly embellishments like twine, dried flowers, or even small, reusable ornaments. If you have a real Christmas tree, small snippets of branches are a festive addition. It's a simple yet effective way to add a touch of rustic charm to your gifts!
Furoshiki: The Art of Elegant Wrapping
For an extra special touch when wrapping gifts, we love Furoshiki. Furoshiki is the Japanese art of cloth wrapping with roots dating back to the Nara period (710-794 AD). Traditionally used to transport clothes to the public bathhouses, modern Furoshiki are popular as a beautiful and sustainable gift wrapping method.
The Benefits of Furoshiki
Furoshiki offers numerous benefits beyond sustainability. It's a zero-waste approach that eliminates the need for disposable wrapping paper. Additionally, Furoshiki can be reused repeatedly, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice. The elegance of the wrapped gift is heightened by the intricate folds and knots, making it a delightful unwrapping experience.
Tips for Furoshiki Mastery
To wrap a gift using Furoshiki, choose fabrics like cotton or linen for flexibility and durability. Choose a cloth that gives you plenty of fabric to work with, in a color and pattern that suits the gift recipient. There are numerous online tutorials to guide you through the art of Furoshiki, ensuring that your gifts are not only beautifully presented but also environmentally responsible.
As we embrace the spirit of giving, a more sustainable wrapping option can also spur some extra creativity and add a little extra thoughtfulness to an already sweet gift.
Still looking for gift ideas? Explore our favourite gifts under $100 below.
