Clear wrapping paper isn't just for gift baskets.
After the holiday season, many homes are left with seemingly unusable gift wrap. Unfortunately, clear wrap (also known as cellophane wrap) may be lumped into that category. Its translucent quality, even in different colors, makes it useful for wrapping gift baskets. Its place in a crafter's arsenal is often overlooked, as it can turn a simple craft project into a sleek and sophisticated work of art.
Necklaces
Children will enjoy making homemade necklaces with leftover clear wrapping paper. Cut a piece of white cardboard into a shape (circles, hearts, stars and diamonds work well). Leave a small tab of cardboard at the top of the design. Provide craft items such as glitter, pom-poms, beads and ribbons. Let children decorate the cardboard. Provide glue, but leaving some of the decorations loose will add movement to the finished piece. Cut pieces of cellophane paper the same size and shape of the original design (except for the tab). Attach the cellophane to the cardboard with glue or tape. Punch a hole into the cardboard tab and string with yarn.
Stained Glass Windows
Use leftover scraps of clear wrapping paper for faux stained glass. Clean the glass surface thoroughly and let dry. Cut the cellophane into shapes using scissors (for more intricate designs, use a hobby knife). Mix glossy decoupage glue with a small amount of water to slightly thin it. Paint a thin layer of decoupage glue onto a small area of the glass. Gently press the clear gift wrap onto the glue, tapping the area lightly to get remove air bubbles. Repeat this process until the project is completed, working one small area at a time. Allow the decorated glass to cure according to the glue's instructions. If desired, paint over the design to seal it. Experiment with different techniques to personalize your window. Overlap different colors of clear wrapping paper to create new shades or crumple and crease the cellophane for added texture.
Flowers
Lay at least six sheets of paper (alternating tissue paper and clear gift wrap) on a flat surface. Fold the tissue/cellophane stack accordion-style. Securely hold the pleated paper together while you wrap a pipe cleaner around the middle of the bunch. Round off the ends of the paper with scissors. Carefully peel apart the layers of paper to form a colorful, crystalline flower. Use a hot-glue gun to attach to a wreath, or wrap another pipe cleaner around the base to make a single stemmed flower.
Book Covers
Add some color to your home library by wrapping books in transparent wrapping paper. Lay a sheet of clear wrapping paper on a flat surface. Open the book (like a butterfly) onto the cellophane, with the cover and spine facing the wrapping paper. Wrap the book as you would any gift, but wrap only the cover itself. Leave the pages free.
