Use newspaper. Use newspaper.
Newspapers (especially the colorful Sunday comics section) are a readily available substitute for wrapping paper. Avoid news sections that may have depressing headlines.
Use tissue paper.
Many stores provide tissue paper for packing the gift inside the box. Use that tissue to wrap the box.
Use brown paper bags.
Cut apart brown paper grocery bags; use them inside out if they are printed.
Use shopping bags.
Cut off the handles and bottoms and use the glossy shopping bags from the store. Some stores also put festive designs on their bags during the holiday season, giving your wrapping job a colorful touch.
Use aluminum foil.
Bright and shiny, foil is an excellent choice for giftwrap. Consider making small foil sculptures and putting them on top of the gift for added flair. Take care not to rip the foil, which tears easily. Alternatively, use waxed paper.
If you do not have a roll of shelf paper, remove the paper that lines your drawers. Carefully peel it off (it should come up easily), wipe with a damp cloth, and cut to fit the present.
Use colored plastic wrap.
Plastic wrap intended for food storage comes in several colors, including red and green. Use it to wrap gifts, then shrink to fit using a hair dryer.
Use fabric.
Any fabric or cloth can be used as giftwrap. Gather the fabric around and tie with yarn for a homey touch. It is not necessary to hem the fabric. If using clothing or socks, be sure they are clean.
Use sticky notes.
Multicolored sticky notes can make an attractive pattern or layered effect.
Use tissues.
Facial tissues, if applied carefully, can be a colorful, soft giftwrap. Use toilet paper only as a last resort.