How to Organize Your Gift Wrap

December 19, 2011

Gift Wrap OrganizerPaper and ribbon and bows…oh my!  With the holidays right around the corner, organizing your gift wrapping supplies will have an immediate benefit.  A common result of any type of disorganization is the frustration of having to go out and buy something you know you already have but can’t find.  These supplies are no exception.  Many people have enough gift wrap, gift bags, tags, and ribbon to last them a lifetime.  How can you organize your gift wrapping supplies so that you can find what you need when you need it?  Just follow these tips:

  1. Wrapping Paper Storage ContainerSort by Type – Gather all of your wrapping supplies from everywhere in your home and sort them by type (gift wrap, gift bags, ribbon, bows, tags, tissue paper, extra boxes, tape, scissors)
  2. Toss – Toss or recycle any items that are torn, smashed or wrinkled.  Only keep the things that you would actually use to wrap a gift.
  3. Donate – If you find you just have way too much, or if there are any supplies that you no longer like, but they are still in good shape…donate them or pass them along to a friend!  Someone will be thrilled.
  4. Take Inventory– Now take a look at what remains.  Do you have enough wrapping paper?  What about tags?  Do you have supplies for other special occasions, such as birthdays, weddings, new baby, etc.
  5. Choose a Location – Now it is time to setup your wrapping station.  You want to keep all of these supplies together, and it is best to store them near where you plan to use them.  The most common storage locations include a closet or under a bed.
  6. Containerize – Which containers you Plastic Ribbon Storage Boxchoose depends on where you are setting up your wrapping station.  Containers range from tall and skinny to long and flat.  You can also find ones that hang in your closet.  Many of these specialized organizing products have smaller pockets for things like tags, tape and scissors.  If yours does not, then add a small bag, box or bin to keep these together.  They also make ribbon dispensers.  This is a great way to organize all of your ribbon and make it very easy to use.  For bows, consider a box or bin to prevent them from getting crushed.
  7. Make a Shopping List – Lastly, make a shopping list for any gift wrapping supplies or containers that you need to complete your gift wrap station.

This is a relatively quick project, and it will save you time and money repeatedly throughout the year.  Happy Holidays!