0

30+ Eco-friendly Fabric Alternatives to Wrapping Paper and Ribbons

Embracing fabric as an alternative to traditional wrapping paper presents a wonderful opportunity to reduce waste and infuse the gift-giving experience with personality and thoughtfulness. The versatility of fabric alternatives for gift wrapping, from utilizing fabric scraps and reusable shopping bags to pillowcases and towels, offers endless possibilities. Moreover, by incorporating eco-friendly embellishments such as dried fruit slices, burlap, and wooden utensils, the sustainability and charm of the presents are further enhanced. By delving into these fabric wrapping options, you not only elevate the gift-giving experience but also contribute to a more environmentally conscious and thoughtful holiday season.

21 ways to use fabric as gift wrapping

Furoshiki

Steal a bit of that Japanese ingenuity with this amazing method for wrapping gifts called the ’furoshiki’ as you take a piece of rectangular fabric and fold it over the present as a substitute for gift wrap that sewing enthusiasts adore because it gets them an additional present that is the fabric.

by Cleveroctopus

Christmas stoking

One of the best ways to use fabric as a gift wrapping on Christmas is to make the famous stockings for presents that hang above the fireplace and wait for Santa to fill them up, featuring multiple sizes and customization options to make each stocking special and closer to the owner’s personality.

by Christmas stocking patterns 

looking for a pattern? Check out this mini or standard stocking pattern by Hellosewing

Fabric gift bag

Here’s a pattern that will let you make adorable little pouches with ribbon ties on top that are fantastic for handing out small presents that mean a lot and are personal because they give them an additional value since you made the effort to handmade the pouch instead of using wrapping paper.

by Hellosewing

Petal drawstring bag

This pattern will help you make something special and thoughtful that most likely no one did for your friends, a beautiful small pouch that has a flat bottom and a top that consists of four triangles you tie together when you close the bag so that, when it’s open, it looks like a blooming flower with four petals spread out in four different directions.

by Hellosewing

Drawstring bags:

Diy drawstring bag

You could give your little ones their candy presents in regular gift boxes or bags, but you can also make these tiny drawstring bags and fill many of them with candy or other smaller presents and make the experience of unwrapping much more creative and unique for them as if they completed a quest and received the rewards.

by Hellosewing

Drawstring Backpack for larger items

It’s much better to use a drawstring bag like this one instead of disposable wrapping paper because you’re doing your part I’m reducing the waste and helping the environment, but also because in this case, the wrap becomes an additional present that they can use for all kinds of things later on.

by Hellosewing

Makeup in a drawstring makeup bag

Here’s a pattern for an inventive bag that is primarily designed for make-up and its easy transfer but it also works magnificently as a sustainable alternative to paper gift wrap because it can easily store presents for kids and adults, and because it’s so practical, everyone will love it and find many uses for it.

by Hellosewing

Zipper pouch

The rectangular fabric pouch with a zipper on one of its long edges that you can sew with this pattern is ideal for substituting gift wrap since kids can later use it for storing their crayons and similar, while adults can use it for make-up or beard-shaving supplies and tools.

by Hellosewing

Triangle zipper pouch

The cool thing about this triangular fabric pouch with a contrasting lining and a zipper closure across its longest edge is its uniqueness and versatility which makes it appropriate for kids since it can become their first wallet for coins, and adults too, because it can be great for keeping earphones, lipstick, flash drives, and similar small items.

by Hellosewing

Fabric gift card holder

Make a gift card or voucher a bit more thoughtful with a lovely little fabric holder that has a pocket with a diagonal cutoff on the front so it exposes the card and shows what it is, and a thin string loop on the top that allows you to hang it onto the Christmas tree.

by  Hellosewing

Fabric Lunch bag for food items

The fabric bag you can make with this pattern features a flat bottom and a roll-up closure on top that makes it perfect for keeping your lunch safe and warm until your lunch break comes, but it’s also great for storing any kind of present as a useful and sustainable gift box alternative.

by Hellosewing

Playmat (toy drawstring bag) to wrap a toy or a lego set

Here’s a perfect option for wrapping presents you’ll give to your little ones, a big round fabric placemat for playing with toys that has a drawstring threaded through its outer edge so your kids can just pull the string and simultaneously pick up their toys as the mat turns into a drawstring bag!

Fabric Scraps

If you’re not handy with a sewing machine or you are strapped for time, consider using fabric scraps instead. Simply gather the fabric around your gift and tie it off with a piece of ribbon. Burlap, in particular, adds a rustic and charming touch to your wrapping.

There’s no need to sew anything if you have enough fabric in your sewing supplies, you can just grab a piece of the fabric you think looks the best and then wrap it around the present you’ll give out, tie it up with some ribbons or fabric straps and your gift wrapping is complete!

by Architectureartdesigns

Reusable Shopping Bags

Reusable shopping bags are not only practical but also come in a variety of stylish designs. They make for a thoughtful and sustainable wrapping option, and the recipient can use them for grocery shopping after opening the gift.

Those fabric bags you can sew in a matter of minutes can be a great option for a gift wrap substitute, especially if the person you’re giving the gift to doesn’t sew because it will come In handy for them for everyday activities like shopping or trips to the beach.

by Hellosewing

Pillow Cases

Add a drawstring to pillowcases or simply tie them off with a ribbon for a unique and charming gift wrap alternative.

Lovely pillowcases aren’t just for pillows as you can see in this idea that shows you how you can use them for wrapping up gifts that you’ll place inside them and tie them up with a drawstring or a ribbon for a special look with a dose of sustainable and environmentally friendly charm everyone appreciates.

by We-are-scout

Towels, Blankets, or Scarves

Consider wrapping gifts in towels, blankets, or scarves for an elegant and thoughtful presentation. For kitchen-themed gifts, wrapping them with a set of dish towels adds an extra useful touch, while nesting baby gifts inside a soft, new baby blanket is both practical and endearing. Vintage scarves from thrift stores also make a unique and sustainable wrap.

Skip the store where they sell gift wrapping and go to a thrift store instead, to find a blanket, towel, or an elegant scarf that you’ll wrap around the gift and decorate with some colorful ribbons for a creative look and a practical substitute for disposable wrapping paper the receiver will love.

by Tonalitydesigns

Don’t wrap

Alternatives to ribbons and wrapping bows

Fabric scrap ribbons

Those bits and pieces of fabric you have left from your sewing and quilting projects can become wonderful ribbons in all sorts of colors that you can use to decorate the presents you’ll give out and put the leftovers to good use instead of just throwing them away.

by Bootscats

Fabric roses

It doesn’t matter what kind of a present you want to decorate, because these gorgeous fabric roses will make even the guys breathless with their beauty, and the greatest thing about them is the fact that that you make them out of scraps that you’d throw out otherwise!

by Hellosewing

Fabric bows

When you think of a gift, you think of big boxes with those lovely bows on top, and with the help of this pattern, you will now know how to sew amazing little bows that you can put on boxes or directly onto the presents, especially if they’re kids toys because the bow will make them even cuter!

by Hellosewing

Scrappy fabric gift tags

Eco-friendly Gift embellishment ideas

• Dried orange or lemon slices: Add a pop of natural color and a delightful citrus aroma to your gift by adorning it with dried orange or lemon slices. These charming embellishments bring a touch of rustic elegance to any present. All you need to do is chop up a lemon or orange in slices and pop them in the oven on low heat ( 175°F / 80°C) for 2 to 3 hours
• Bits of greenery or tree trimmings: Incorporate a touch of nature into your gift wrapping by using small snippets of greenery or tree trimmings. Whether it’s a sprig of pine, a snippet of eucalyptus, or a tiny branch of holly, these organic accents infuse your gift with a fresh and earthy appeal.
• Burlap bits or burlap ribbon: Embrace a rustic and eco-friendly aesthetic by using burlap bits or burlap ribbon as a charming addition to your gift wrapping. The natural texture and earthy tone of burlap lend a warm and inviting feel to your presents.
• Cinnamon sticks: Infuse your gift with a cozy and aromatic touch by incorporating cinnamon sticks into your wrapping embellishments. These fragrant and visually appealing accents add a hint of warmth and charm to any present.
• Wooden spoons or utensils can be used for kitchen-related gifts / hostess gifts: Consider using wooden spoons or utensils as unique and practical embellishments. These items not only complement the theme of the gift, but they also serve as a thoughtful and reusable addition to the recipient’s kitchen.

As the holiday season approaches, the search for creative and sustainable ways to wrap gifts takes center stage. It’s the perfect time to explore fabric alternatives for gift wrapping, which not only reduce waste but also add a personal and eco-friendly touch to presents. From the traditional Japanese art of Furoshiki to charming Christmas stocking patterns, fabric gift bags, and drawstring bags, these fabric wrapping ideas cater to both avid crafters and those seeking eco-friendly and stylish wrapping options. Whether you’re passionate about sustainability or simply want to infuse your gift-giving with creativity, these fabric wrapping ideas are certain to inspire and delight.

You’ll be the person everyone will want to get a present from, thanks to all these patterns and ideas! Drop by the comments and tell everyone which of these ideas you like the most and which ones gave the best results for you. The mailing list subscription option is always available to you if you want fresh updates fast. Enjoy handing out unique and thoughtful presents with sustainable wrapping!