Novel packaging guarantees success at any bake sale. Here are a few ways to wrap things up.

Click here to see a larger image of the finished gift packages

Rolls
Cut 14-inch (35 cm) long piece of waxed paper and set on work surface with long edge closest to you.

Lay stack of sturdy cookies lengthwise on paper close to edge. Roll up, folding in ends.

To finish, cut decorative paper 8 inches (20 cm) longer than cookie roll; centre roll on paper and roll up, sealing with double-sided tape. Tie ends with ribbon.

Coffee can
Wash cans in hot soapy water. Remove paper labels.

Cut decorative paper or fabric to fit. (Measure height and circumference; add 1 inch/2.5 cm to circumference for overlap.) With glue stick, secure to can.

If you can't find cans with lids, wrap cookie-filled cans in cellophane and tie with ribbon.

Egg cartons
Egg cartons are ideal for holding delicate treats such as truffles. Add some homemade crackers for a unique gift. Or use them to package up gifts of cookies and candies.

Use plastic or Styrofoam egg cartons that can be washed in hot soapy water. Line egg cups with paper candy cups or mini-muffin liners before adding homemade goodies.

Trace top of carton onto wrong side of decorative paper. Cut out and glue to top of carton; if desired, repeat for inside of top. (Or trim off lid and flap from bottom of carton. Fill and wrap in cellophane, then fabric, decorative paper and/or ribbon.)

Brown bags
Simple brown paper lunch bags provide low-cost but attractive wrapping.

To prevent grease marks, line bottom and partway up sides with waxed or parchment paper.

Attractively trim top edge of bag with scissors or pinking shears. Mark and punch holes as desired, then fill bags.

Fold down top 1-1/4 inches (3 cm) to create flap. Add desired finishing touch.

Ribbon: Using hole punch, punch 1 or 2 holes close to centre of flap; thread ribbon or twine through and tie.

Sewn: Mark faint pencil line 1/2 inch (1 cm) from top fold; mark dots every 1/2 inch along line. Using bodkin or other heavy-duty sewing needle, pierce paper at dots. Sew with ribbon or twine.

Monogrammed motif: Draw or trace recipient's initial or motif on flap of bag. Using X-acto knife, carefully cut out top layer only (place corner of cutting mat or cardboard between layers to prevent cutting through all layers). With glue stick, carefully spread glue around underside edges of cutout; back with decorative paper or fabric.

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This article originally appeared in the Canadian Living Special Issue, "Holiday Best 2009". Subscribe to Canadian Living today and never miss an issue!