Eco-Friendly Gift Wrapping and Decor | The Source Weekly

As a collective, we’ve become more conscious of our impact on the environment, and perhaps even more so around the holidays. During this season, it’s easy to rely on disposable items for convenience, but that can feel out of alignment with our values.

We are connected to this Earth and all its life. Knowing that, wrapping presents with paper destined for the landfill after a single use feels increasingly misaligned. We put so much care into making the holidays special for our loved ones—what if part of that care extended to making more sustainable choices that benefit us all long-term?

Luckily, there are plenty of options that are simple and impactful. Eco-friendly gift wrapping and decor might just become your family’s newest tradition—and future generations will thank you!

Why Avoid Wrapping Paper

While unwrapping presents is undeniably magical, the truth behind single-use wrapping paper is not so glamorous. It’s tied to deforestation, chlorine pollution, and—of course—trash. Lots of trash. Even wrapping paper labeled “recyclable” rarely ends up being recycled due to coatings, dyes or glitter that make it unsuitable.

By using materials you already have at home or opting for reusable items like boxes or cloth, you not only reduce waste but also save money. And the best part? You don’t have to sacrifice how your presents look. In fact, eco-friendly wrapping can inspire even more thoughtful, unique presentations, turning the wrapping itself into a meaningful part of the gift.

Eco-Friendly Wrapping Alternatives

Furoshiki (Fabric Wrapping): Think sustainable wrapping is new? Think again. In Japan, the tradition of furoshiki (cloth wrapping) dates to around 700 B.C. You can use scarves, dish towels, bandanas or any fabric you have on hand to wrap gifts, and the best part? The wrap itself can be part of the gift!

Upcycled Paper and Materials: Why not get creative with what you have on hand? Old maps, newspapers, sheet music or even children’s artwork make great wrapping materials. You can also stamp or paint the paper to make each gift feel even more personal.

Boxes, Jars, Baskets and Tins: Looking for something sturdier? Try using reusable containers like boxes, jars, baskets or tins. These not only protect the gift but can also double as part of the gift itself—or be reused for future presents.

Eco-Friendly Gift Decorations

Local Natural Materials: Enhance your gift wrapping with local plants like sagebrush, juniper or pine sprigs. Before harvesting, take a moment to express gratitude—these plants are living beings, too. Their addition to your gift will feel natural and grounding.

Nature-Inspired Decorations: Pinecones, cinnamon sticks, dried oranges and leaves make for beautiful and fragrant adornments. Tie them together with jute twine, and you’ve got a festive, yet sustainable, look.

DIY Recycled Decorations: Create your own bows, tags or ornaments from recycled fabric, felt or paper scraps you find around the house. Repurpose old ribbons or yarn from past gifts to give your packages a unique touch.

Sustainable Holiday Decor Ideas

Nature-Based Decor: Instead of buying plastic wreaths or garlands, why not make your own from foraged items like twigs, acorns or berries? Not only does this keep things sustainable, but being around natural materials can be calming and joyful in a way that plastic just can’t match.

Repurposing Household Items: Glass jars can easily be transformed into candle holders or centerpieces. Old sweaters can be upcycled into cozy pillow covers. Rather than buying new, repurposing breathes new life into items we already have.

Edible Decor: Gingerbread ornaments, popcorn garlands or fruit displays add a festive touch and can all be enjoyed over the holidays. It’s a fun, interactive way to decorate without creating unnecessary waste.

Minimalist Decor: Rather than focusing on quantity, opt for fewer, high-quality decor pieces that you can reuse year after year. Not only does this reduce consumption, but it keeps your space beautiful.

Make Eco-Friendly a Tradition

Eco-friendly wrapping and decor can become a cherished family tradition. From selecting fun fabrics to foraging local plants, these activities create lasting memories. They also help us slow down and connect with the true meaning of the season.

Choosing sustainable materials with care brings us closer to the Earth, to each other and to the spirit of the holidays. Who knows? These practices might just become your favorite part of the season—something special passed down through generations.

And let’s be honest—who wouldn’t love receiving a gift wrapped with such intention and care? The love is felt from the moment they lay eyes on it.