(ARA) – The holiday season is right around the corner, and that means the presents will be piling up before you know it. This year, before you reach for the usual old boxes and bows, rethink your wrapping routine with these simple, inexpensive ideas to help you punch up every present. Not only will you surprise and delight everyone on your gift list, but you’ll also set the tone for a holiday season they’ll never forget.

Think beyond the box: Hold the sweater boxes and wrap your gifts in more interesting packages. Items like baskets, buckets and tins are not only fun to unwrap, but they can also pull double-duty by being used around the house after the gift has been opened. If you saved gift boxes from last year, try repurposing them with bold, new twists. Decorate box lids using rubber stamps to create a personalized look that showcases your recipient’s initials and favorite colors. Or, create a one-of-a-kind package by covering a box with colorful ribbon or decorating it with festive holiday tape, like EZ Start printed packaging tape from Duck brand. You can even use it to create various designs.

Keep it under wraps: Set aside traditional wrapping paper in favor of unexpected materials to make gifts feel even more special. For glitz and glam, try wrapping presents in silver tissue paper, sparkly scrapbook paper or sheets of foil to create stunning style. For the crafters in your life, seasonal fabric makes a great alternative to wrapping paper; and those who love to travel will appreciate gifts wrapped in repurposed maps and exotic newspapers. For close family members, children’s artwork makes for original, whimsical wrapping paper that doubles as a special keepsake. Just have your kids draw, doodle or paint on brown craft paper, then use it to wrap presents for grandparents, aunts and uncles.

Add an adornment: Amp up the wow factor of each package by adding an embellishment that doubles as an extra gift. Holiday ornaments, silk flowers and even pieces of costume jewelry will make each present a little more personalized – and much more fun to open. Instead of ribbon, you can also try tying up packages with leftover pieces of yarn. Not only is it a cute and unexpected adornment, but the fuzziness of the yarn also adds a cozy texture that’s perfect for the holiday season. If you’re looking for a final finishing touch, try making a bow out of raffia, tulle or holiday-themed Peppermint or Cinnamon Snow EZ Start printed packaging tape.

Play tag: Repurpose last year’s holiday cards to create gift tags that shine. Just cut a design or picture from the front of the card. Then, punch a hole near the edge and use a felt marker to write your recipient’s name on the back. Thread some ribbon through the hole and secure it to your gift for a quick and easy tag that’s sure to stand out.

Ship and surprise: In addition to all of the gifts you’ll give in person this season, the holidays are prime time for mailing plenty of packages, presents and goodies, too. Packaging tape in fun holiday prints, like EZ Start printed packaging tape from Duck brand, helps ensure your gift is protected and looks fabulous when it arrives. You can even use it to spruce up envelopes for all of the holiday cards you send.

From cute and quirky to stylish and sophisticated, a few simple materials and these easy tips are all you need to make each gift as unique as its recipient. No matter whose gifts you’re wrapping this holiday season, they’re sure to find your one-of-a-kind creations simply unforgettable.