According to research from Hallmark, Americans spend approximately $3.2 billion a year on wrapping paper. That presumably includes things like gift bags which, according to Hallmark, are the No. 1 way consumers wrap gifts. In any case, the more gifts you buy, the more wrapping paper or gift bags you’ll likely use. So, when making your holiday budget did you remember to include the cost of gift wrapping? Our credit counseling advice is to account for every single expense to avoid credit card debt. With the gifting season fast approaching, we thought it best to share some budget friendly gift wrap ideas.
If you’re paying off debt, try these gift wrapping ideas.
Budget Friendly Gift Wrapping Tips
Start looking around your own home first: You have surely received many gifts throughout the years in many types of wrapping paper and gift bags. If you are like me, you keep the gift bags and wrapping paper for late use. This may be the time to take them out and use as suitable. You can also use scrap paper and used cards as gift tags (by cutting the cards into the shape of small gift tags). Shopping around in your own house for things you already have can definitely help you stay on budget.
If you must shop for wrapping paper or greeting cards, shop for bargains: In a typical specialty card shop, greeting cards, wrapping paper, or gift bags can be priced at $3.99 or more. Make sure you visit the dollar store or the thrift store nearby to get these at a fraction of the cost. Look for bargain buys such as multi-card packs, tissue paper packs instead of wrapping paper with a ribbon to go with it.
Research for free printable gift wrapping options: Do a little digging online and you will be able to find a great deal of free printable versions of wrapping paper. All you will need is a full cartridge of ink on your printer and you are all set!
DIY gift wrapping options: There are a plenty of ways to create your own unique gift wrap. You can convert newspapers, grocery bags, or literally any type of paper lying around the house to create your own wrapping paper. You can also make a fun project with kids and let them add their artistic touches to a unique wrapping paper.
If you’re struggling to pay off debt, ACCC can help. Schedule a free credit counseling session with us today.
