When wrapping gifts, for whatever event or occasion, instead of using a obvious gift bow, think of using something else, that would be more useful to the recipient, such as a pretty doily, a pretty scarf, or maybe a decorative ornate ring to go around a candle.
The possibilities are endless on what you could use. For Christmas, you could use a seasonal cookie cutter or a lightweight Christmas ornament. On a man's gift, you could use a key ring of his favorite team, etc.
For kids birthday parties I always use a non-traditional bow made from good imagination. Sometimes it accompanies a real stick on bow. I do like to use thin curling ribbon, which is cheap if bought in a big spool. I buy a bag of bows during after holiday discount, very cheap. I often take individually wrapped candies, packs of fun fruits, whatever, & tape each one till it forms a "bow" of some sort. This can be done w/ almost any smaller item the recipient might like or be able to use. I also re-use real bows when I can, just tape them on next time.
By edieaprksnter your name. (Guest Post)
02/23/2006
YES. i have enjoyed doing this too. At christmas i sometimes put big size candy bars on by gifts for a yummy decoration. edie
By Carol (Guest Post)
02/23/2006
What a great idea. Bows are so expensive, and they're just a waste..