by Kellyann Dinoff

Created on: June 16, 2008   Last Updated: June 18, 2008

Presentation is Everything

Wrapping a present with flair doesn't take extraordinary talent, just a little creative thinking and some ordinary, and not so ordinary, materials. So the next time you run short on wrapping supplies, or just want to show some extra creativity in your packaging, give some of these ideas a try.

Think Theme Wrap your baby shower gift in a baby blanket and secure with diaper pins. For a housewarming, pack all the ingredient and utensils for a delicious dinner in a beautiful, new cooking pot. You can give the gift of green by collecting seed packets and some hand tools and package in a pretty pot or watering can.

Creative Packaging Take a step away from boxes and bags and try out some different packaging. Some items may be sitting right there in your cupboard, attic, or even your garage! Pack specialty teas in a pretty tea pot or coffee sampler packs in a beautiful, oversized mug. Hide jewelry or other accessories and equally small gifts in a pretty sock or wrap with a beautiful scarf for a two-in-one gift. Corral the makings of their favorite drink in a unique pitcher or their favorite snack items in a lovely serving bowl. You could even use an empty paint can to package your gift. Add some paint and a pretty ribbon and you've got an inexpensive custom' container. And don't forget baskets! They come in all shapes, sizes and materials and they're completely reusable.

Make it Personal Make plain paper special by stamping with the recipient's initial or name. If it's a smaller gift, you could even print out photos of cherished memories or past celebrations to use as gift wrap.

Picture This Grandma and Grandpa always appreciate the artistic talents of the little ones and nothing could be better for Mother's Day and Father's Day gifts than paper sporting your little Picasso's masterpiece. Just layout some extra large craft paper on the floor and let the little ones loose with crayons, markers, paints, anything you can think of. For a different twist, have the kids dip their hands and/or bare feet into colorful paints and stamp' the paper with their unique prints.

Monetary Gifts When the occasion calls for a gift of cash, why not stand out from the crowd and make your gift memorable for more than the amount. You can create a cash bouquet' by folding or artfully crumpling dollar bills of any denomination and securing with floral wire or pipe cleaners. Even the smallest amount draws oohs and ahhs in this form.

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