Green tip: Avoid using tape because paper can't be reused if it's covered in tape. Instead, secure paper with ribbon, twine, raffia or string.

Materials Needed:

• cardboard box large enough to hold the gift
• sheet of previously used gift wrap or fabric, ironed on a low setting to eliminate creases
• organic embellishments (leaves, berries or cinnamon stick)

Step 1

Put gift in the box; shapes with flat, angular sides are easier to wrap neatly. Place box in the center of paper.

Enlarge Photo+Shrink Photo-DK - A Greener Christmas © 2008 Dorling Kindersley Limited

Step 2

Fold two sides of the paper over the box so they overlap. Wrap string around the box and tie it in a knot to hold the folded paper in place.

Enlarge Photo+Shrink Photo-DK - A Greener Christmas © 2008 Dorling Kindersley Limited

Step 3

Fold the paper carefully at each end of the box: press the paper neatly in toward the center to create two triangular flaps at either end.

Enlarge Photo+Shrink Photo-DK - A Greener Christmas © 2008 Dorling Kindersley Limited