When it comes to gift-giving, let’s face it, what’s on the outside does count. A gift wrapped with extra creativity and care builds excitement in anticipation of the present inside.

Brought to you by some of our fave Instagrammers, Alyssa of Random Acts of Pastel + Blouses and Houses, this dreamy watercolour DIY gift wrap tutorial has pretty packaging all wrapped up!

‘With a colour scheme inspired by our upcoming #pastelxmaspartea shoot, we chose shades of pink, purple, and blue, carefully blending them together to create pastel Christmas magic. Super simple and oh-so pretty, this is the perfect way to personalise the presents under your tree,’ says Alyssa.Blog_DIY_Make_WatercolourGiftWrap_10

SUITABLE FOR

All ages

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

Roll of white drawing paper (found at art supply stores) | Watercolour paint in tubes | Small paint brushes for mixing | Small plastic containers (yogurt etc.) or a palette with deep compartments | Rags | Cups of clean water

WHAT TO DO

1. Roll out your paper on a clean surface, use weights or clamps to secure it.

2. Designate a container for each colour you’d like to use. Drop about a dime’s worth of watercolour paint into the bottom of the container. Add a few tablespoons of water and mix well.

3. Dip the rag in a cup of clean water to saturate it, then dip into a colour mixture and in broad sweeping motions apply to paper. Try not to oversaturate the paper with water as it will tear!

4. Once the paper is dry you can add another colour – We don’t recommend using more than 3 as the paper could become too weak. Note: Try not to overlap contrasting colours (ie: green and red) as this will make brown. Stick with cool or warm colour families to avoid making a mess of your artwork!

5. Allow to dry fully with the weights or clamps. Once dry (ideally next day) lay a clean towel over the paper and on a low setting lightly iron over it to smooth out any wrinkles.

AND THEN

Wrap up a treat!