Skip The Wrapping Paper And Package Your Gifts In An Adorable Dollar Tree Find Instead

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It has been estimated that wrapping paper in the U.S. results in around 2.6 billion pounds of waste annually. As such, finding alternative and innovative ways to present gifts is not only a great way to save the planet by reducing waste but also to get your own creativity flowing. And it doesn't have to be complicated, either. Even if you're not sure where to start, there is an affordable and sustainable wrapping paper alternative which is perfect for creating a lovely display and preventing unnecessary refuse this holiday season.

These classic woven baskets from Dollar Tree make for a wonderful way to package gifts for friends, family, and colleagues — and they cost just $1.25 each! Coming in three styles — white, brown-and-white, and brown-and-black — their simple design relies on the natural aesthetic of woven materials, adding a handmade feel to these store-bought options. They make great gifts themselves, so the gift-receiver can use them to store and organize items for years to come.  

Keep in mind that they are only 2.36 inches tall and 6.3 inches long, so they are not necessarily suited for large or bulky gifts that require a bit more space. However, their size and quaint shape could work perfectly for smaller gifts or for a collection such as cute food jars, candles, or baked goods. So, if you're taken in by the sweet look and reusable quality of these baskets, how can you use them for packaging holiday gifts your friends and family will love?

There are two key ways to use these baskets for presents this festive season. The first is for a single, showstopper gift. If you've found one special item for someone, these baskets can be a great way to display it in a more memorable and sustainable way than simply wrapping it in paper. The second way to use these baskets for gifting is to display a collection of small items. If you are at a loss for what to get someone, these baskets can actually help you come up with some fun, unique ideas. First, pick out which of the three baskets you like best. Then, decide on a theme (movie night, spa day, favorite snacks, etc.) and take it around the Dollar Tree, thrift store, or other shop looking for items that fit well into the basket and suit your recipient's likes or needs.

Once you have purchased your collection of items, fill the bottom of the basket with some sustainable filler such as fabric scraps, newspaper,  or some reusable gift wrap materials you already have at home. Make sure to layer the objects so that the different heights create visual interest. If preferred, you can wrap the whole thing in clear cellophane, then top with decorative elements such as ribbons, bows, or tags. But what if the items slide around and ruin the aesthetic before you have a chance to gift them? Don't worry! A simple trick to keep them perfectly in place is to use some Glue Dots to stick the items together and stop them moving.