by Ruth Belena

Created on: November 22, 2010   Last Updated: November 29, 2010

Saving leftover wrapping paper, so it is always available for use, can be a good way to save money. Wrapping paper is often cheaper to buy in long lengths, when it is sold in rolls, rather than buying individual sheets. Multi-packs and loose sheets of wrapping paper can be found on special offer when stocks of leftover wrapping paper reduced in price by retailers with stock to clear. Free wrapping paper can also be stored, after careful unwrapping of gifts wrapped in paper that is good enough to reuse.

Recycled or unused wrapping paper should be stored so that it will look as good as new when it is needed for wrapping a gift. Paper is best stored where it is not exposed to dust, daylight or damp. Christmas wrapping paper can be kept in the same place as Christmas decorations, but birthday and general purpose wrapping paper should be stored somewhere that is easy get access, so the paper is ready for birthdays and special occasions.

• Full sheets of gift wrapping paper

Unused sheets of wrapping paper can be folded, but creases may show when you eventually use it to wrap a gift. If you bought a pack of ready folded wrapping paper, then there should be no problem in keeping unused paper in its original packaging.

A roll of gift wrapping paper will usually have a strong cardboard tube inside. This can be reused to store leftover sheets of wrapping paper, by rolling them around  the tube. It is possible to roll wrapping paper without a cardboard tube, by rolling several sheets of paper together. Rolls of leftover wrapping paper can then be stored inside a large plastic bag or placed in a tall cardboard box.

If you have a suitable space in your home you could hang loose sheets of wrapping paper over a towel rail or drying frame, in the same way that loose sheets of wrapping paper are displayed in stores when sold singly.
 
•  Wrapping paper scraps and small pieces

You might have some great craft ideas for using wrapping paper scraps, or you may want to save small pieces for wrapping individual gift items. Cut out scraps are best be stored in large envelopes, folders or files. Small rolls of paper can be safely stored inside a firm bag or box to avoid crushing. Small pieces can be laid flat on the base of a wide box, and small rolls of paper can be loosely stacked.

When you know how best to store leftover wrapping paper, and paper you want to use again, you are not just saving money. You will always be prepared for wrapping a gift, whatever the occasion, and need never again worry about finding suitable wrapping paper for any type of gift you want to give.

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