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🎁 Wrap Gifts With Thrifted Finds: Scarves, Baskets and Tins
Gift wrap goes in the trash. A thrifted scarf, basket or tin becomes part of the gift, and it costs about the same as a roll of paper.
Fabric wraps
A square silk or cotton scarf can wrap a box the way you would fold a napkin. Tie the corners on top and tuck in a sprig of greenery. Cloth napkins and tea towels work for smaller gifts, and the wrap becomes a second present.
Containers that keep giving
- Baskets for a basket of treats, tools or a mix of small gifts.
- Tins and lidded jars for cookies, candles or tiny things.
- Mugs and teacups filled with tea, hot chocolate or a small plant.
- Vintage suitcases and boxes for larger gifts.
Trims and tags
Look for ribbon, yarn, buttons and old brooches in the craft section. A brooch pinned to a wrapped gift is a second gift. For tags, cut up old greeting cards or use a bit of fabric and a marker.
Plan the loop
Add a stop for the gift you plan to give, then pick shops with strong craft and housewares sections. Check the closing times on the Trail, since many shops shorten their hours near a holiday.
Thrift tip: Wash any fabric wrap once and press it flat. It will look fresh and smell clean.
Plan a loop, gather your wraps and give a gift that arrives in a gift.
Plan a route through Chattanooga area thrift stores, vintage shops and antique malls, ordered around their hours.
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