I grew up in a very loving, underprivileged family. We were the type of kids that never knew we weren’t well off until other people pointed it out. Don’t get me wrong; we did not want for anything because my parents sacrificed relentlessly for us. My father was a Pastor, so sacrificing was and is in my family’s nature. Why am I telling you this? Even though sometimes we may have received practical gifts like underwear; my mom always made the gift wrapping special in my eyes. We would often receive packages from my Oma and Opa from Germany, and they would have packed our gift inside of a purse or in a tiny little box. I can not tell you the excitement we would have upon seeing those packages on our front porch.

I  still may not be able to buy any extravagant gifts now, but I can take extra time in making the wrapping look and feel amazing. That is why I want to share my favorite places to buy my must-have gift wrapping supplies.

Must have gift wrapping supplies

For the past 15 years, I have themed my Christmas gift wrapping. My family calls me Martha Stewart. I could be called worse…so I’ll take it. It doesn’t take very much money to make your gifts look great. But it does take time: time to think of cool themes and time to execute them. On average, I spend 6 hours wrapping Christmas gifts. Mind you; I have a large family, 20 in total. I usually have multiple gifts for each person (small gifts).

This post may contain affiliate links. I do not promote ANY products or services I do not use myself. All opinions expressed here are 100% my own.

Must have gift wrapping supplies:

1.  Gifts international– this is my hands-down go-to place for a ribbon. The quality and prices can not be beaten. Also, the best place to buy small muslin bags and tulle.
   

   Elijah’s baby shower

   

   Anton’s Baby shower

2. Marshalls, Homegoods, and TJ Max– I have a love-hate relationship with the checkout line at both stores. They always have fantastic thick wrapping paper that you can’t find anywhere else. It’s also really cheap.
3.  Michaels– I buy a lot of present toppers, gift baskets and boxes here. They always have great prices and great coupons.
   

   Christmas 2013

4. Hobby Lobby– I hit this one up after Christmas for wrapping paper and tags. Always a significant discount during that time.
5. Pick your plum- I think I have most if not all of my tags and tins from here. This is a site that you have to sign up to receive great products at a discount.
   

   Match tin with a striker on the outside

   

   Glitter magnets in a tin

6. Blitsy– if you require card making gear, stamps, or tags, they have a great selection. This is another site that you need to sign up for. Did I mention that they also accept competitor’s coupons? Awesome sauce!
7. Paper source– They have glorious wrapping paper here. I only buy this on very special occasions.
8. IKEA– not all Ikea’s have paper wrapping sections but if you are lucky to be at one that does they have fun thick paper and embellishments.
9. Papermart– Tissue paper galore. I love it, love it love it. Did I mention I love it? So cheap and tons of colors to choose from.
   

   Anne’s Batman and Joker-themed birthday gift

I also recommend having multiple types of tape (invisible tape, glue dots, washi tape, and double-sided tape) and various kinds of scissors (pinking shears and good sharp scissors).

As for the best place for wrapping inspiration, it is Pinterest (of course) and my brain! Make someone’s day by giving them a thoughtfully wrapped gift. You will feel just as good about the gift as the package you presented it in.