Time to Play Santa – The Upcycle Way!

It’s December and you know what that means. The frenzy of buying, or if you haven’t started — making — gifts, for friends and family begins. At least it does in my home. Unless I knit or quilt a blanket, I don’t start thinking about holiday gift-giving until the chill of Dec. 1 hits me. If you’re like me and you’re looking for a way to dress up your gifts, but don’t want to buy wrapping paper, here are a few great ideas and fabulous suggestions that I stumbled on during my quest for creative, eco friendly alternatives.

Use fabric instead of paper! Try your hand at Furoshiki, an origami-like way of folding fabric. A guide published by The Ministry of the Environment, Government of Japan shows you how to use the technique to wrap different types of packages. If you use a lovely vintage napkin or scarf, it’s a great way to give two gifts in one.



“What? No gift bag to put that cute vintage mohair sweater you snagged for your sis?” Well, you're in luck -you can make a cute bag out of newspaper. How About Orange shows you how.


Some other great ideas can be found at Craft:, and FeelGoodStyle.

By the way, Upsidedive will also have some handy dandy gift sets with upcycled wrappings coming December 4th: Accessory packs made up of ties and scarves, kitchen packs of salt & pepper shakers and mugs to name a few. If you’re interested in checking out what we’ve got in unique gifts sets, stop by the shop this weekend.

So all you “Secret Santas” out there can be eco friendly, creative and have fun enjoying the gift of giving.

Elee*