You know that magical feeling when you hand someone a beautifully wrapped gift and their eyes light up before they even know what’s inside? That joy doesn’t just come from the present—it starts with the wrapping. Christmas is the perfect time to get creative and infuse your presents with a little extra magic. Whether you’re gifting something tiny and heartfelt or big and bold, the way you wrap it can speak volumes.
Gift wrapping isn’t just about hiding what’s inside. It’s an extension of your thoughtfulness, your personality, and your holiday spirit. The colors, textures, and patterns you choose set the tone before the first ribbon is untied. Are you going for something cozy and rustic? Sleek and elegant? Fun and whimsical? The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes it so fun.
This year, ditch the basic wrapping paper and think outside the (gift) box. From traditional plaids to glittering metallics, from eco-friendly Kraft paper to luxury foiled finishes, there are so many beautiful options to choose from. And let’s be honest—wrapping gifts becomes so much more enjoyable when you love the paper you’re using.
In this list, you’ll find over 20 Christmas gift wrapping paper ideas that will inspire your holiday gifting. These options are not only visually stunning but also make unwrapping a memorable experience. Whether you’re wrapping for kids, family, or coworkers, there’s something here to match every style.
Let’s dive into the most delightful wrapping paper ideas to make your gifts sparkle under the tree.
20+ Christmas Gift Wrapping Paper Ideas
Classic Red and Green Plaid
If you love a traditional holiday vibe, classic red and green plaid paper is always a win. It pairs beautifully with pine accents, red ribbons, or even a sprig of holly tucked under the bow. The pattern evokes a cozy, cabin-like feel that screams Christmas morning. Use kraft tags for a rustic look or gold-embossed labels for a touch of elegance. This style suits all kinds of gifts and never goes out of fashion.
Kraft Paper with Twine
Simple yet stylish, kraft paper is perfect if you love a minimalistic look. The warm brown tones give your gifts a handmade, earthy aesthetic. Pair it with red and white baker’s twine, fresh pine clippings, or dried orange slices for a festive upgrade. You can also stamp snowflakes or handwrite the recipient’s name in white ink. This option is not only beautiful but also eco-friendly.
White Paper with Gold Foil Stars
Looking for something elegant and celestial? White wrapping paper adorned with gold foil stars adds instant charm and sparkle. It’s ideal for those who want a soft, sophisticated look without going over the top. Tie it up with a gold or ivory ribbon and you’ve got a gift that feels special and chic. This paper works well for adults and can elevate even the smallest of presents.
Candy Cane Stripes
Red and white stripes channel candy cane vibes that feel cheerful and nostalgic. This pattern is great for kids’ gifts, stocking stuffers, or fun little surprises. Add a peppermint ornament or red satin bow to complete the theme. It’s bright, bold, and instantly recognizable as holiday-themed. You could even mix and match with green-striped paper for more variation under your tree.
Buffalo Check
Buffalo check is cozy, bold, and makes a statement under the tree. Usually in black and red, it’s ideal for rustic or woodland-themed wrapping. Top it off with burlap ribbon, pinecones, or cinnamon sticks for an extra festive touch. The graphic look of this paper makes it popular year after year and pairs well with natural elements.
Metallic Silver Wrapping Paper
If you want a glam and modern aesthetic, go for metallic silver. It reflects light beautifully and adds a touch of winter magic. Pair it with white satin ribbon, a glittery tag, or even a small ornament tied to the bow. Silver wrapping paper looks especially striking beneath twinkling lights and complements blue, black, or pink accents well.
Vintage-Inspired Santa Prints
Love a nostalgic holiday feel? Wrapping paper featuring vintage-style Santas brings a whimsical charm to your gifts. These designs often come with muted colors and retro fonts, creating an old-school vibe. Finish the look with velvet ribbon or handwritten tags for added charm. It’s perfect for older relatives or anyone who appreciates Christmases of the past.
Scandinavian-Inspired Minimalist Designs
For a clean, serene holiday look, opt for Scandinavian-inspired wrapping paper. Think simple tree silhouettes, tiny hearts, or minimalist snowflakes in soft red, gray, or white tones. These patterns offer a calm aesthetic that pairs well with natural ribbons, wooden tags, and neutral embellishments. It brings an elegant but homey vibe to your gifts.
Reversible Wrapping Paper
Why settle for one look when you can have two? Reversible wrapping paper is a fun and functional way to switch up styles. You can mix and match patterns—like polka dots on one side and stripes on the other—to create unique designs. This is especially useful when wrapping multiple gifts for the same person. Use a contrasting ribbon to highlight both patterns.
Monochrome Black and White
For a sleek and modern feel, black and white wrapping paper delivers a bold statement. Whether it’s polka dots, stripes, or graphic snowflakes, this palette is both timeless and edgy. Add a pop of color with a red ribbon or stick with monochrome accessories for an ultra-sophisticated touch. Great for adult gifts and modern decor themes.
Green Botanical Print
Green botanical prints bring a refreshing natural look to your holiday wrapping. From pine branches to mistletoe, these papers look lush and festive. Complement them with natural twine, kraft gift tags, or wooden accents. The subtle green tones pair well with rustic and organic themes, making them ideal for nature lovers.
Chalkboard Style Paper
Chalkboard-inspired wrapping paper looks like a hand-lettered blackboard with fun messages and doodles. It’s creative, playful, and ideal if you love crafting. Add colorful chalk-style markers or white pens to personalize messages right on the paper. You can also tie it with bright ribbon or keep it simple with white twine. It’s great for DIY lovers and adds a personal touch.
Glitter-Coated Paper
Want to dazzle your gift recipients? Go for glitter wrapping paper. Whether it’s gold, silver, or a rainbow hue, this type of paper adds full sparkle to any gift. Because of its bold texture, keep the ribbon and tags minimal so the shine takes center stage. Perfect for kids, glam holiday parties, or eye-catching centerpieces.
Watercolor-Inspired Designs
Watercolor wrapping paper gives your gifts an artistic and delicate look. Choose holiday colors like icy blues, soft greens, or warm reds with painterly textures. These designs feel personal and unique, almost like a handmade card. Match with soft satin ribbons or lace for a dreamy finish. It’s a perfect choice for creative souls and art lovers.
Map Print Paper
If your gift is for a traveler at heart, map-print wrapping paper adds a thoughtful, adventurous touch. Choose holiday-themed maps or vintage-style designs to keep it seasonal. Pair with red twine or a compass-shaped tag for added flair. It’s a great conversation starter and turns any present into a journey waiting to happen.
Newspaper Style Wrap
Go retro and eco-conscious with newspaper-style wrapping. Some designs mimic actual newsprint with fun holiday stories and images. Others might include crossword puzzles or faux ads for Santa’s workshop. Add a splash of red ribbon and your gift instantly looks both quirky and clever. It’s a great reuse-and-recycle option too.
Velvet Finish Paper
Luxurious and soft, velvet-finish wrapping paper feels as amazing as it looks. Usually available in deep hues like burgundy, emerald, or navy, it’s the epitome of holiday elegance. A velvet ribbon or metallic tag can elevate it further. This option is perfect for special gifts meant to impress.
Sheet Music Print
For music lovers or choir members, wrapping paper printed with sheet music is a beautiful and thematic choice. Choose Christmas carols for an extra festive feel. Combine with gold string or a wooden treble clef ornament for a gift that sings. It’s thoughtful, personalized, and classy.
Tartan-Inspired Prints
Tartan patterns offer a cozy, heritage-style look perfect for family gifts. Think rich reds, forest greens, and navy blues in bold checkered layouts. Tie with leather string or hemp cord to enhance the rustic vibe. Tartan wraps feel timeless and warm, just like Christmas at home.
Kids’ Character Paper
Wrapping paper featuring Santa, elves, reindeer, or snowmen with cartoon flair is perfect for younger recipients. Choose bright, playful designs that reflect your child’s favorite holiday icons. Add jingle bells, stickers, or colorful curly ribbon for extra fun. These wraps build anticipation and joy for the little ones.
Transparent Cellophane with Confetti
For something different, use transparent cellophane layered over confetti or glitter tissue paper. This unique approach offers a peek at the gift while still providing surprise. It’s playful, colorful, and full of festive spirit. Tie with a sparkly ribbon and you’ve got a standout present.
FAQs
What kind of wrapping paper is best for eco-conscious gifting?
Kraft paper, recycled paper, and fabric wraps like furoshiki are great sustainable options. Pair with biodegradable twine and natural accents.
How can I make my wrapped gift more festive?
Add embellishments like ribbon, pine sprigs, dried oranges, small ornaments, or handwritten name tags to elevate the look.
Where can I find high-quality Christmas wrapping paper?
Look for holiday collections at craft stores, online boutiques, or even specialty paper shops. Many offer unique designs that big-box stores don’t.
Can I mix different wrapping papers under the tree?
Absolutely. Mixing patterns adds visual interest. Try sticking to a color scheme like red, green, and gold for a cohesive look.
What are some budget-friendly wrapping paper ideas?
Use brown paper, old maps, newspaper, or even children’s artwork. These can be personalized and cost little to nothing.
Conclusion
When it comes to Christmas, the outside of your gift can be just as meaningful as what’s inside. Choosing the right wrapping paper transforms your present into a piece of holiday decor, a small expression of your love and creativity. Whether you gravitate toward traditional plaids, shimmering metallics, or cozy natural prints, each wrap tells its own festive story.
You don’t need to be a pro to make your gifts look amazing—just a bit of inspiration and the right paper. So have fun with it. Play with textures, mix patterns, and let your holiday spirit guide your choices. After all, beautifully wrapped gifts are part of what makes Christmas morning so magical.
So go ahead—unwrap the joy of gifting by wrapping with style this season.
