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Even when you are trying to save money, giving gifts is an enjoyable way to show family members and friends how much you care. However, even if you've shopped carefully for the best price on the gift, wrapping paper and other embellishments can add to the overall cost.
Fortunately, creating a beautifully wrapped gift doesn't mean you have to spend a lot of money on expensive designer wrapping paper. Instead, why not make your own designer gift wrap? Not only will you save money, but you'll also add a more personalized look to your gift.
Iron Crayon Wrapping Paper
You can make beautifully marbled wrapping paper from nothing more than a couple of pieces of paper and some crayon shavings. The next time your child sharpens his or her crayons, save the resulting shavings. Ideally, you should save the different colors in separate plastic bags, so that you can choose just the colors you want for your wrapping paper design. Your child might enjoy helping you by sprinkling the crayon shavings on the paper. However, make sure you do the ironing process yourself, to prevent the risk of burns.
To make this beautiful wrapping paper, you'll first need to select two equally sized pieces of paper. If you only need to wrap a small gift, you can even use inexpensive 8-1/2 by 11 inch printer paper. If you have a larger gift to wrap, try using a roll of Kraft paper or a large sheet of paper from a drawing pad.
Start by placing several layers of scrap fabric on your ironing board, so that you won't get any crayon wax on its surface. Then, place one piece of paper on the iron board. If you are using a piece of paper that is larger than your ironing board surface, you will have to work in sections. Sprinkle some crayon shavings onto the paper, choosing colors that you think will look nice together. Metallic-colored crayon shavings in shades of silver, gold or copper can add a really nice look when combined with other colors. Sprinkle the shavings evenly, but not too heavily, since the colored wax will spread out a bit when ironed. Then, place the second piece of paper on top of the first, making sure the edges line up evenly. Cover the paper with a few sheets of scrap paper, to protect your iron from any melted wax. Set the iron to a low heat level. Iron the paper until it is warm to the touch, making sure to heat all areas equally. Keep the iron in constant motion, to prevent scorching the paper. You can take a look at the design by separating the paper pieces at one corner. If the crayon shavings are not completely melted, continue ironing it until they are.
Once the wax has melted completely, the crayon colors will have formed a beautiful mottled and marbled design on the paper. Separate the two pieces of paper and let them cool. You can then use this pretty designer wrapping paper to decorate your gift. You can also make a matching gift tag by repeating the process with some lightweight card stock.
Alyssa Davis writes and designs for Metal-Wall-Art.com and she is happy to share many ideas on creating stylish interiors with grizzly bear metal wall art and decorative metal wall cross.
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