Alternatives for Wrapping Paper

I love color! And I love wrapping paper! I mean, seeing all the pretty boxes all wrapped up is pure happiness! But in CA where we used to live they wouldn't accept it for recycling and so it got me thinking... I for sure didn't want to just throw it away! What a waste, right? Just the thought made me sad. Especially when you end up with bags and bags of wrapping paper by the end of the morning!

So here are a few alternatives to consider:

* Save your paper from year to year if you can, especially the tissue paper... even if it's a little ripped it is still reusable

* Use gift bags and then save and reuse the ones you are given (although they are expensive sometimes)

* Wrap them in newspaper that you already have

* Use cheap paper and decorate it with stickers and stamps and drawings (kids will love this!)

* Wrap gifts in reusable grocery bags. I love Trader Joe's and Whole Foods bags because they are pretty:) You can find some nice ones at other stores too! And they are a gift in itself. I know I love my bags!

* Use paper grocery bags

* Use fabric... the fabric might even be part of the gift:)

* Decorate an old box with paint or markers

* You can even hide the gift and bring it out at the right moment with just a bow

What are some alternative wrappings that you like to use?