The Best Christmas Wrapping Paper, From Quirky To Traditional To Reusable

19th December 2023 | By Astrid Carter

Whether you’re a self-confessed whizz with the sellotape or dread wrapping your presents every year, we’ve handpicked the best Christmas wrapping paper and gift-wrap accessories – from ribbon to gift tags.

From traditional tartan print to retro Santa designs and eco-friendly alternatives, here’s how to make the gifts at the bottom of your tree extra special this season, and maybe even match your Christmas decorations

As easy as it is to pick up a roll of wrapping paper at the till in a mad rush in the lead-up to Christmas, it pays to shop around for gorgeous independent brands. There is something for all tastes, from the beautifully illustrated designs of Katie Leamon – think graceful swans and partridges in pear trees – to Eleanor Bowmer’s alternative prints like a leopard in hot pink colourways that are sure to put a smile on the face of the recipient at any age.

We’ve also done the hard work for you and picked out some of the best finishing touches that will make even a pair of socks something really special. Head to The White Company and Zara for simple, classic styles or Ginger Ray and Anthropologie for something a little more spicy.

Heather Elevyn’s brightly coloured designs – from candy canes to retro prints – will bring a nostalgic charm to the bottom of the tree.

Traditional Christmas Gift Wrap

As much as we love the bottom of the Christmas tree to look like a tin of Quality Street exploded everywhere – all jewel tones and glitter – there is something to be said for a traditional Christmas theme.

If your festive aesthetic harks back to William Morris-esque prints and idyllic Christmas scenes, look to brands such as Heather Evelyn Katie Leamon and Nancy & Betty. Finish your presents off with a simple velvet bow, a sprig of holly or a traditional tartan ribbon.

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Cute & Quirky Wrapping Paper

Do festive with a bit of retro flair this Christmas and put a smile on their faces before they’ve even unwrapped their gift. Little ones will love the personalised Falala paper that comes printed with their own name – cute, whilst Flying Tiger’s charming candy canes and bows print is not only cheap as chips (£3!) but looks like something out of a 1950s scrapbook. 

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Reusable Wrapping Paper

Simple, stylish and sustainable, reusable wrapping is a thoughtful alternative to traditional paper, offering a no-waste approach to gift giving. Etsy has some beautiful Liberty prints which can be used at any time of year, whether rebooted as tea towels, table placemats or passed on as new gifts all on their own.

For something that stretches the sustainability even further, Toast’s Furoshiki wraps are a great alternative to Christmas crackers and come filled with eco gifts like a felt dog decoration, fair trade mini pencils or mini paper rosettes. The wrap can then be used again, countless times over, to house future presents. 

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Wrap with a conscience this year with a reusable, no-waste furoshiki cloth. The traditional Japanese method of wrapping gifts dates back centuries and is a thoughtful way to gift your loved ones.

The Finishing Touches

From simple stars and rustic foliage,  big velvety ribbons to candy-striped washi tape that will disguise even the worst of wrappers out there, scroll to shop our super easy edit to make your gifts look extra special this year.

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The products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, The Handbook may make a small commission on some products purchased through affiliate links.


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