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'Tis the season for gift-giving, and what better way to add a personal touch to your presents than by creating your own unique wrapping paper? In this DIY guide, we'll explore the joy of turning your art into beautiful, bespoke wrapping paper that not only protects the gift but also becomes a part of the present itself.

Before we dive into the creative process, gather these materials:

1. Plain wrapping paper or kraft paper. Michaels has them as well!

2. Acrylic paints or watercolors

3. Paintbrushes or sponges

4. Palette or disposable plates

5. Water and paper towels

6. Optional: Stencils, stamps, or markers for added detailing

Step 1: Set Up Your Workspace

Choose a well-lit and spacious area to unleash your creative energy. Lay out your plain wrapping paper, ensuring you have enough space to move around freely. Gather your friends and family and turn it into a collaborative and enjoyable group project.

Step 2: Select Your Artistic Style

Consider the recipient's tastes and the occasion. Whether it's abstract shapes, floral designs, or personalized messages, your wrapping paper is a canvas for your creativity. Sketch out ideas on a scrap piece of paper before transferring them to your wrapping paper or go wild.

Step 3: Paint Away!

Dip your paintbrushes into the chosen colors and start bringing your design to life. If you're feeling adventurous, use your fingers, sponges, or even stamps to add texture and depth to your creation. Don't be afraid to experiment—each brushstroke is a unique expression.

Step 4: Layer and Mix Colors

Create dimension by layering different colors. Experiment with blending shades to achieve the desired effect. Allow each layer to dry before adding the next to prevent smudging. Give paper marbling a shot too! Check out our blog post for an easy guide on how to get started.

Step 5: Add Details

Fine-tune your masterpiece by adding intricate details. Use stencils for geometric precision or markers for personalized messages. Let your artistic instincts guide you.

Step 6: Let It Dry

Once satisfied with your artwork, let the wrapping paper dry completely before wrapping your gifts. This ensures the paint sets and won't transfer onto your presents.

Step 7: Wrap and Admire

Wrap your gifts using your custom-made wrapping paper. Watch as your loved ones admire the thought and effort you put into creating a gift within a gift.

If you're a digital artist, worry not—I'm in the same boat. Keep readng for insights tailored just for you.

Printing out your digital art to create custom wrapping paper is a fantastic way to add a personal touch to your gifts. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Materials Needed:

1. Digital art file

2. Computer/Tablet and printer

3. Plain wrapping paper or large sheets of kraft paper (optional)

4. Image editing software

5. Printer paper or test sheets

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Choose Your Digital Art:

Start by selecting the digital art you want to use for your wrapping paper. Ensure the image resolution is high enough for printing, especially if you plan to print a large sheet. For best results for printing. I always use 300dpi and I have the color set to CMYK.

2. Edit and Resize:

If necessary, use image editing software to resize or edit your digital art to fit the dimensions of your wrapping paper. Most printers have a maximum paper size, so ensure your artwork is within those limits.

I leverage tools like Canva or Printful to swiftly establish the pattern. Stay tuned for more tutorials on the intricate process of turning your art into a pattern design.

Printful you can easily turn your artwork into a pattern design. With Canva, Zazzle, and Print Place I found you have to create the pattern by copying and pasting.

Example of a clipart in Printful and turning it into a pattern.

3. Set Up Your Printer:

If you choose to print from home. Ensure your printer is in good working condition and has enough ink. Adjust the printer settings to match the size of your wrapping paper. Some printers can handle larger sizes, while others may require you to piece together smaller sections.

4. Print a Test Sheet:

Before printing on your wrapping paper, use regular printer paper to run a test print. This allows you to check colors, resolution, and positioning.

If you choose to use Canva, Printful, Zazzle, or Print Place you can skip this step and view the mockup on the application.

5. Load the Wrapping Paper:

Cut your wrapping paper to the desired size and load it into the printer. Make sure the paper is loaded correctly according to your printer's specifications.

6. Print the Digital Art:

Once you're satisfied with the test print, proceed to print your digital art onto the wrapping paper. Keep a close eye on the printing process to catch any potential issues.

To have a 3rd party print for you here are the sizes from the least number of choices to the most.

Printful you have one choice. 28 3/4” x 19 3/4”

Canva gives you 2 choices for sizes: 7 feet and 18 feet.

Zazzle you get 6 size choices.

finally, Print Place gives you unlimited size options.

7. Let It Dry:

Allow the printed wrapping paper to dry completely before handling it. This prevents smudging or transfer of ink onto other surfaces.

8. Wrap Your Gifts:

Once the wrapping paper is dry, use it to wrap your gifts. Admire the unique and personalized touch your digital art has added to each package.

Final Tips:

- Use high-quality paper for the best printing results.

- If your artwork has a specific orientation (e.g., landscape or portrait), ensure the paper is loaded accordingly.

- Experiment with different printing options, such as grayscale or sepia tones, to achieve a unique look.

- Use 300dpi when creating your artwork and have the color set to CMYK.

Now you're ready to turn your digital art into beautiful, custom wrapping paper for a truly special gift-giving experience!

Happy gift wrapping!

Laurie & Bex