Here we are at the final installment of my Vintage Holiday Wrapping Ideas. Finding creative containers for your gifts is easier than you think. I made these gift bags out of the lining of a vintage satin bedspread (which I washed first, of course). To make them, I tore pieces into the proper size to accomodate my gift. I didn't use the scissors, just left the edges frayed.
For the front artwork, I scanned an antique Christmas postcard and printed it out (in reverse) onto iron on transfer paper. Be sure to follow the directions that comes with your transfer paper. I ironed it on a piece of new muslin for contrast and stitched it to the outside of the bag. After this is done you can run a seam up both sides of the bag to finish it off. Here I also added a small antique button and a piece of the welt cording from the bedspread.
For the ribbon on the wine bag I used the same welt cording and just removed the interior cord, leaving just the satin remnant. All that was added to make it more special was a piece of tinsel and a vintage ornament.
If you come across a nice sturdy box you can turn it into instant holiday glamour just by painting the box top and applying a nice dusting of mica glitter or german glass glitter. For mine, I painted them cream first and applied a coat of gold paint over that before glittering them. Painting several colors adds dimension and also helps to cover any wording on the box. Very little embellishing is needed for such beautiful boxes.
And there are so many wonderful vintage tins and boxes at nearly every antique shop. Here is a sampling of tobacco tins, lingerie boxes, cigar boxes and biscuit tins. You can line the insides with tissue paper, parchment paper, fabric, basket filler or waxed paper depending on your gift.
The graphics and colors of vintage tins are unbeatable and all they will need is a length of gold cording or a tinsel bow to make them stand out.
If you find a particular tin that doesn't have great paint or graphics, such as this pail, you can always use paint stripper to remove it which will reveal the beautiful patina of the tin itself. I've also heard that you can use Easy Off oven cleaner to do this but have never tried it for myself.
Well, that about does it! Thank you all for stopping by to read this little mini series. I had a lot of fun sharing it with you. It's been great reading your comments and getting your emails. Quite a few of you have tried some of the ideas and others have been inspired to dig through their stash. And I have to say to all my vintage loving friends.....recycling rocks!
