You may be able to grab some really excellent wrapping materials without ever having to leave home. You may find these treasures in your garage, the basement, the attic, or anywhere you didn't think you would find it. Plastic bags can serve a nontraditional container for your gift wrapping essentials. A dark colored trash bags are great for conceiling what is inside of the package. For an enhanced effect, you pad the shape of the gift to conceal the shape and other details of the package.You may want to tie a large bow around the top and fasten smaller bows around the package to improve it.



A white bag can serve as the perfect background for a package decorated with stickers. A clear bag may be decorated from the inside taking advantage of its inherent transparency. You can use thick yarn, large strips of fabric, rope, or boat line to tie the neck of the bag.

Sheets can be dyed in a bold color to make them more cheerful gift wrapping materials. For a more unique look apply the dye with a paint brush. Hand painted fabrics have a more elegant impression. Spray paint help to create an overall misty effect. An old blanket in good condition can be used to wrap gift items of unusual shape. A shower curtain with a unique print can serve as a unique gift wrap.

Plastic film is a moisture proof and heat sealable wrapping material. It is very flexible and perfect for wrapping odd shaped objects. Keep in mind that most plastic products should not be used in direct contact with food, so be sure to check with the manufacturer before using such material for fruit baskets and such edible products.

Lightweight cardboards are not the best material for wrapping entire boxes, but they are perfect for covering large surfaces.

Sheets of plastic will work well for large gifts. You can make clear plastic much more exciting by painting it. An old curtain can provide much needed cushioning of fragile items. You will be surprised at your own creativity when it comes to working with unconventional wrapping materials.