7 Simple Ways To Reuse Your Leftover Holiday Wrapping Paper
After the holidays, there’s always that pile of wrapping paper scraps left over. Too nice to toss, but too random to use to rewrap gifts for birthdays or other occasions. It ends up folded, stuffed into a closet, and forgotten until next year. But you can do a lot with leftover wrapping paper. With a little creativity and very little effort, those scraps can turn into things you’ll actually use. Nothing fancy, just simple ideas that help you be less wasteful.
Line Drawers And Shelves For An Easy Refresh
Wrapping paper makes a surprisingly cheerful drawer liner. Cut pieces to fit kitchen drawers, bathroom shelves, or even the inside of a nightstand drawer. It protects surfaces and adds a little personality where you least expect it. Plus, if it gets torn or dirty, you don’t have to feel bad replacing it. This works especially well with sturdier wrapping paper and patterns you love but don’t want on display year-round.
Make Custom Book Covers Or Notebooks
Leftover wrapping paper is perfect for covering books, planners, or notebooks. It’s flexible, lightweight, and easy to trim. This works best for protecting cookbooks, journals, or school notebooks that take a lot of wear. You get a custom look without spending any extra money. It’s one of those little upgrades that makes everyday items feel more personal and protected.
Use It As Decorative Table Accents
You don’t need a full table-sized amount to use wrapping paper creatively. Cut it into placemats, runners, or even folded napkin wraps for casual dinners or parties. It adds color without commitment and works well for birthdays or other seasonal gatherings. When the meal is over, cleanup is easy. It’s festive with stuff you can throw out, making hosting feel more relaxed.
Turn It Into Wall Art Or Framed Prints
Some wrapping paper is just too pretty to throw away. Cut out sections of the pattern you love and frame them as fun, festive wall art. Group a few frames together for a gallery-style look. This is great for kids’ rooms, offices, or anywhere you want a pop of color without buying new décor. And when you’re ready for a change, swap it out without guilt.
Wrap Storage Boxes And Bins
Plain storage boxes make it hard to remember what’s inside. Wrapping paper gives them a quick upgrade. Cover shoeboxes, small bins, or drawer organizers to make storage feel pretty and make your boxes easier to tell apart. It’s especially useful for closets or shelves where things are visible when the door is open. Matching patterns can even make storage feel coordinated, which is a nice bonus.
Create Simple Gift Tags And Cards
Save the smallest scraps for gift tags, bookmarks, or homemade cards. A hole punch and string turn paper into name tags in seconds. Fold thicker pieces into cards for thank-you notes or bookmarks. It’s an easy way to reduce waste and still make something thoughtful. Plus, no one else’s gift tags will look quite the same.
Protect Surfaces During Messy Projects
Wrapping paper works surprisingly well as a disposable drop cloth for crafts, painting, or small DIY projects. Lay it over tables or counters to catch any glue, paint, or glitter that you drop. When you’re done, roll it up and toss it in the garbage. It’s not glamorous, but it’s practical and saves you from a ton of scrubbing later.
Related Articles
-Creative Uses for Leftover Lumber From DIY Projects
-Is It Safe to Leave Your Christmas Tree Lights On All Night? Experts Weigh In
-Budget-Friendly DIY Christmas Gift Ideas
Leftover wrapping paper doesn’t need to sit around taking up space while you wait for next December. With a few simple ideas, it can add color, function, and even a little joy to everyday life. Reusing it feels good because it’s thoughtful and easy to use. Sometimes the best projects are the ones that use what you already have.
Bliss Donahue-Power
