All you need for WrapLove is nothing special!
If you have a roll of brown paper and a few craft supplies, then you’re ready to make your parcels extra-thoughtfully this year – easy!
Here’s a simple list of the basics, all of which can be substituted with what you have to hand.
Paper!
- Rolls of brown parcel paper are available from post offices everywhere. Cut in to gift-wrap-size sheets and leave them flat to uncurl. This is your go-to basic for WrapLove.
- Look out for recycled kraft paper, which is sturdy, versatile and eco-friendly.
- One of the projects uses waxed paper – catering suppliers may be able to help you stock up on a roll or two. Commandeer your own greaseproof paper only in an emergency…
- Cartridge paper comes in pads and sheets – not so thick that you can’t fold in the corners….
- That stash of tissue you’ve been smoothing out and saving? Its time has come to crinkle out into the light.
Scissors!
- Far from being an excuse to showcase some of my scissor collection, this image illustrates that any pair will do.
- Long straight blades slice through large sheets swiftly and smoothly.
- A small sharp pair is great for trimming ribbon and thread.
Ink!
- The jewel-like intensity of ink is perfect for parcels.
- Mix up your own unique shades to complement each recipient.
- Experiment with sample cards before beginning a big sheet.
- Use any kind of paint, from poster to acrylic, water-colour to emulsion…
- Make your mark with crayons, felt-tips, pastels or coloured pencils too.
Tape!
- Washi is the paper lover’s top choice of tape – a multitude of colours and patterns, easy to rip and reposition.
- A favourite WrapLove project involves double-sided tape. Stock up on a narrow (12mm/half inch) roll and and a wider (33mm/inch) one too.
- Matte tape is pretty magic – discreet and reliable – when you don’t want to distract from your wonderful creations.
Ephemera!
- Up-cycle old books and papers to add texture and intrigue to your wrapping.
- Check out The Travelling Bookbinder’s top ephemera-finding tips.
- Re-purpose magazines, flyers, printed instructions. etc.
Ribbon and string!
- Choose from a fantastic array of tones and textures, to match or contrast with your parcel.
- Fabric: Cotton/velvet/silk.
- String: Wool/garden twine/hemp
- Paper: Elegantly plain, splendidly crumpled. Fine twine or crinkled raffia.
Tags!
- Use strung parcel labels for a utilitarian vibe.
- Combine a cluster of tiny price tags with a message on each one.
- WrapLove includes a template for you to make your own.
- Re-use existing tags by collaging over the surface.
- Replace string with ribbon or wool to complement your paper.
Here’s a full list of materials and tools for WrapLove.
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