Late December brings the issue of wrapping up – gifts, first of all since we are in the midst of holidays, but year-end tasks as well. I will save the 2022 recap for next week. Today, let’s focus on ways to use fabric as gift wrapping.

Decorative Bags

One way to eliminate paper waste at the holidays is to make decorative fabric bags. My mother embraced this trend last year. Do a quick internet search to find a pattern. She made a variety of sizes, with many seasonal fabrics and cord.

Another way to use fabric is to make it part of the gift itself. If you enjoy any yarn crafts or give the gift of knitting, a simple bag with handles can be filled with supplies. This type of fabric gift bag can also work as a wine tote, which makes a lovely hostess gift.

Are you the type of person who loves to collect special things to create a themed gift basket? Turn to fabric for the container! Every quilter could use replacement needles, rotary blades and pins. What a joy to have these notions wrapped in a fabric basket! My friend at Studio Jules Art has some in stock in her Etsy shop, and there are plenty of tutorials online if you are the DIY-type.

Wrapping Up with Fabric

I must admit, I have used fabric as wrapping paper, and tied it with yarn, but it looks so much better when done in the Japanese tradition of Furoshiki. If you’d like to try it, here is a blog tutorial with several methods. I think some of my Island Batik stash can be put to good use with this technique!

Put Your Foot Down

Have you found time to quilt during this busy season! I’d love to see your current projects.