Christmas Gift Topper Ideas
These Christmas gift topper ideas will take simple wrapped packages from ho-hum to beautiful. So many lovely ways to finish off any holiday gift!
I’m always looking for new ways to wrap Christmas gifts. Over the years, I’ve shared many fun, festive and pretty gift topper ideas that take simple wrapped packages from ho-hum to beautiful.
Okay, so I know what some of you are already thinking: Do I really need to make wrapping gifts even more complicated? What is a gift topper, anyway?
When it comes to Christmas gift wrap, I highly encourage you to get an early start. While I’m out shopping for gifts, I keep my eyes open for pretty wrapping paper and ribbon that works with my tree decorations. Whether you go with something basic like plain kraft paper, or choose a more elaborate grouping of printed papers, a topper is a detail any recipient will appreciate. Basically, it’s anything you can attach to the top of a gift that goes beyond simple bows or ribbon.
Plus, it all looks so darn good when it’s grouped together under the Christmas tree!
Once you know your foundation, start creating (or collecting) your gift embellishments. Having everything ready at your fingertips well before wrapping day makes it much more enjoyable. No matter if you’re giving a box, basket, bag or simple card, one of these gift topper ideas will finish it off perfectly.
DIY Christmas Gift Toppers
Mini Wood Bead Wreaths
I love how easy it is to personalize these mini wood bead wreaths. Switch up the ribbon and add faux or fresh greenery to finish it off. These gift toppers can also be used as tree decorations. So cute!
–> See how to make these cuties: Mini Wreath Gift Tags
Tassel Gift Toppers
I made these boho style tassels using wood beads I found at the thrift shop, plus metallic and natural string I had leftover from a previous Christmas. Take this idea and make it your own by using coloured string, a glittery bead or whatever your little heart desires. They also make beautiful ornaments hanging from the Christmas tree!
–> Get the tutorial: Shabby Chic Christmas Gift Toppers
Mini Bottle Brush Tree Gift Toppers
It doesn’t get any easier than making these bottle brush trees attached to mini clothespins! Such a cute way to add a wintery look to a gift. As an option, you could attach other mini decorations to the clothespins for a bit a variety. Think about the recipient to include something personal.
–> Make these cute tree clip-ons: Bottle Brush Tree Gift Embellishments
Mini Jingle Bell Wreaths
Want to add a bit of sparkle to your Christmas gifts? These mini jingle bell wreaths are so fun to make and reflect the light beautifully under the tree. I used silver and black for a modern look, but you could use gold, copper or coloured jingle bells in varying sizes.
–> Learn how to make these wreaths: Jingle Bell Gift Toppers
Vintage Printed Fabric Gift Toppers
Have you ever printed fabric using iron-on transfer paper? I love how these vintage Christmas images look on these handmade cotton canvas tags. Get creative with the images you choose to print. Such a pretty way to top a present.
–> Get the graphics and instructions: Printed Canvas Gift Toppers
Of course, you can always use items from nature to decorate your Christmas gifts. It doesn’t get more budget-friendly than clippings from your yard or winter stroll through the woods. I suggest adding these finishing touches right before Christmas unless you’re going with dried or faux.
Boxwood and Holly Berry
As gift toppers for my cookie tins, I clipped fresh boxwood and paired it with faux holly berry stems. I love the way it pops against the white background and ties in nicely with the MERRY CHRISTMAS ribbon.
–> More cookie packaging ideas: How to Wrap Baked Goods for Christmas
Pine Cones and Greenery
It’s easy to dress up plain kraft paper with pretty ribbon, pinecones and greenery. For this gift, I took apart an artificial branch to create several gift toppers. Other times, I’ve used clippings from outside. If using fresh, attach a day or so before gifting.
–> Other wrapped gifts with greenery: Vintage Glam Christmas Gift Wrap
Tip: Save gift toppers from year to year and use them in new ways. It may be as simple as changing out the ribbon to create a whole new look. Or, repurpose them as Christmas tree decorations!
More Christmas Present Topper Ideas
- fresh olive stems or eucalyptus
- rosemary
- magnolia leaves
- dried orange slices
- salt dough ornaments
- gingerbread ornaments
- paper snowflakes
- felt cutouts
- photos
- pompoms
- cookie cutters or other kitchen gadgets
- small tools
These button gift embellishments and wood slice chalkboard decorations are also easy and fun to make.
Be sure to keep the recipient in mind when selecting the gift topper. I try to personalize as much as I can to make it extra special.
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Shop Christmas Gift Toppers
Would you rather buy than DIY? Click the pics below to find these ready-made present toppers, including snowflakes, cookie cutters, mini trees and more. So adorable!
Printable Christmas Tags
Don’t forget to finish off with a gift tag. I have this woodland collection you can download and print. Enjoy :)
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Happy wrapping!
These gift topper ideas were originally published November 2021 and updated with new details and photos November 2022.