Happy Thanksgiving............and a season of gift wrap begins

As it turned out, this collection of gift wrapped samples had an autumn feel with some festive touches just starting to make their way into the mix. Perfect for wishing my American readers Happy Thanksgiving. They weren't intended to go together, it just happened that I piled them together to get them out of harm's way.........harm being a 6 lb. canine companion who was a bit too intrigued by the berries we cut while walking this morning. As you know, she also steals ribbon. One of those helpers you really have to watch, possibly probation.

I have been playing around over here, getting ready for the biggest gift wrapping season of them all. Using up wallpaper sample sheets from outdated wallpaper books, bits of shorter ribbon. Getting close to figuring out exactly what this year's gift wrapping theme will be this holiday season. Started hunting for the sparkly bits that will add the festive touch. That decision, that colour direction, that theme is a process, I rarely end up where I started so it likely won't be what is shown today. Though this could certainly be used as inspiration for recycling things you already have and jump starting some ideas of your own. The next month I will focus on gift wrapping of many styles so I hope you will follow along. 

I used a trio of short fringe trim samples to make these pom poms for a male gift sample. More interesting than ribbon. I don't think men care if there is ribbon on their gift but I do think they like to see a presentation effort more than we would guess. It means keeping your eyes open for more unusual embellishments that don't strike men as too feminine. 

I also like the "deer" ribbon used in a flat layered treatment for a guy gift. The plaid background paper is also a wallpaper sheet. Wallpaper sample sheets can't be used for larger gifts but they do work well for smaller gift presentations. Don't be too quick to throw out wallpaper sample books if you are a designer or know one, they are an great gift wrap source for petite gifts at any time of year. And some of the male-based patterns too. The same goes for the trim books as you can see by the pom poms. All kinds of embellishment possibilites for women or male gifts.

Had I been invited to a Thanksgiving feast this year, I would have brought this as a hostess gift, fresh berries and all. So I think more of you should have invited me since I am not a big eater, bring really good gifts, and help with the clean-up too. Remember, here in Canada we celebrate our Thanksgiving in October. We are just a bit envious of Americans this today...............it is such a great start to the festivities ahead. Happy Thanksgiving and have a most wonderful day with your family and friends. 

All photos by Sande Chase