Never buy gift tags again! [super simple no-waste DIY]
Low-waste living isn’t always easy.
Or cheap.
Or all that cute, truth be told.
I mean, that scarf you knitted out of recycled twine is really eco-friendly and all but um...
So when I stumble upon a waste-free solution that’s frugal, simple, and looks great, I stuff it firmly into the “keeper” pile.
Keep reading for possibly the easiest DIY ever to make gift tags out of something you already have at home.
That “something you already have”?
Holiday cards.
I always joke that greeting cards are how the English show affection.
They may not be comfortable with more outward American-style shows of sentimentality. But damn it, the Brits will trudge through hell and high water to make sure you receive your birthday card on time. 😜
So by the end of the holiday season, we’re left with tons of holiday cards that would otherwise just become waste. And this is a way to give them new life.
It’s super simple…
Step 1. Pick out the cards with designs, patterns, or words you like.
Step 2. Cut them to size (and shape — think outside just plain rectangles!) to make suitable gift tags.
[Optional] Step 3. Punch a hole in the top and tie on some twine or string. (I don’t have a hole punch so I poked a little hole using a sharp knife then slid a chopstick through to make a symmetrical hole.)
^^This one’s optional because it also looks nice to simply slide a gift tag under some ribbon. You can also glue them over branded gift bags from shops to make them look more festive.
Step 4. Put your gift tags in a box or envelope, save for next year, and when you open your big Christmas tub come November, say, “Oh, sweet! I forgot I made these, now I don’t have to buy gift tags!”
Donezo! (Told you it was simple.)
Keep in mind these can go beyond Christmas, too. Some cards may have patterns or designs that aren’t strictly holiday-themed. You can use them for birthday or other gifts!
As for what’s left, the good news is that most greeting cards can be recycled. Check with your local recycling rules for what can and can’t be included.
No two ways around it: the holidays are a time when we generate a lot of waste.
It’s a simple thing but reusing holiday cards to make gift tags means one less item you have to buy and a bit less waste created.
And while that may not change the world, it’s a step in the right direction. Plus, it makes you feel frugal and crafty and Christmassy...and who doesn’t want a bit more of that?
And BONUS: that recycled twine looks EXCELLENT on rustic holiday gift wrap. 😉
