Pretty Packages: 45 Creative Gift-Wrapping Projects

by Sally J. Shim, Madelene Farin (Photographer)

With just a few simple steps, blogger Sally J Shim shows readers how to turn an ordinary package into a customized present as special as the gift within. From a stitched garland topper and watercolor wrapping paper to a confetti gift tag, each of the 45 creative and achievable projects offers a unique twist on gift wrapping. Plus, each project has multiple variations, leading to endless possibilities for prettying up packages. Including techniques for wrapping oddly shaped packages, ideas for creating reusable packaging (a bonus gift for the recipient!), and projects that require only basic materials, Pretty Packages will inspire gift givers as well as Etsy shop owners to make every element of their package special.

Genres: Nonfiction, Crafts, Reference

128 pages, Paperback

First published September 9, 2014

Reviews

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are lots of great gift wrapping ideas packed into this lovely little book, all of them accessible and customizable. Sally J. Shim’s projects are elegant and attractive, but never stiff or snobby. Her clearly written directions are accompanied by beautiful, full-color photos, which makes for simple execution. As Shim states on her introduction, this book will inspire you to make your gift wrapping “an extension of the gift itself.”

[Em · Rating 3 out of 5]

There were a lot of cute ideas so I highly recommend this book to people who sell crafts on Etsy and the like to help make your packaging special. I only wrap a gift every month or two so most of these suggestions are too time-consuming for me, but a creator/seller with reason to make boxes/tags/wrapping paper in bulk may find them more worthwhile.

[Jayyan Al-Bailasan · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book includes lucid details and photos to help us with interesting options and cute ideas for wrapping things easily. I wish if there are more creative extraordinary presentations for wrapping and packaging. However, I recommend this book for crafty business.

[Rachel · Rating 3 out of 5]

I just skimmed through this to look at the ideas. Cute ideas, but nothing too mind blowing. I think the references to the websites in the back are super useful. Loved the washi tape site. I’m a sucker for paper products. 😅

[Paulyna C · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting options and ideas for wrapping presents

[NayDoubleU · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice

3.5
I didnt really learn anything new but the photos were beautiful and directions simple. Made me want to make gifts just to wrap them lol

[Juli Anna · Rating 3 out of 5]

There are some genuinely creative and unique ideas in this book. As someone who delights in gift-wrapping, I'm looking forward to using a few of these ideas moving forward.

[Megan · Rating 2 out of 5]

Always on the hunt for clever packaging ideas. However this was too simple.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book really opened me up to the creative prospects of working with different materials to wrap packages. There are all sorts of methods mentioned here some I had heard of, such as wrapping with a towel or cloth, some I had no idea about. There were even improvements for the ideas I had heard of, using fabric paint to decorate the cloth before wrapping. Each of the ideas is so simple but, like much of life, the simplest ideas that you didn't think of might as well be the most complex concept. Essentially if you are looking for a book to boost your wrapping creativity then this is the one for you.

[Rhonda Stephens · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like these kinds of books to find new inspirations of packaging for my business. It was a little iffy at first. Seemed pretty basic and I did not want to waste my time, however, I'm glad I stuck it out. Even though it was a slow start I did walk away with some valuable information and some new packaging idea's.

[Susan L. Curtin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can't Wait!

The wheels are moving with these instructions. I have two birthdays in August to try out many new suggestions.

I'm very excited about this book, which is a keepsake for sure.

[Brie Peters · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute. Some good ideas.

[Robyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gorgeous gift wrapping ideas & techniques.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gorgeous gift wrap ideas! Very simple ways to snazz up your gifts with step-by-step instructions

[Caffers · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not at all innovative. :/
Got it from the library, so not a big loss. But not worth the gas to go pick it up,... and definitely not worth the 19.95 sticker price, had I bought it.

[Sarah Lee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed some of the ideas in this book, although there were some that I already knew as well. I do think that the book is good enough that I would like to own a copy (it's on my wish list to buy in the future) so that I have something to refer back to when I am looking for quirky wrapping ideas! I like that it has supply lists and steps to wrap or make the packaging and that it wasn't just a hey look at these ideas sort of picture book like you sometimes find. It also has instructions on how to make some bags and boxes as well.