Gift wrap is one of those things that you always seem to be running at the last minute to complete. Quick, get the paper taped and slap on a bow. Well, if you’re like me, you try (at least once in a while) to create an elegant, unique, and/or cute gift that looks as good on the outside as its contents on the inside! Creating a good-looking gift package doesn't have to take a lot of time, just a good idea with advance notice.

So here are 8 of my favorite gift wrap ideas for your Christmas gift-giving:

These first two ideas from familyholiday.net use a bit of current trend with the chalkboard names and felt sash to create a scarf effect for a winter wishes design. 

Go retro with these old Christmas light bulbs turned gift ornament from ihavey.net. For the name tag, I would use a snowflake cutout to keep with the theme.

Pompoms are also trending in DIY decor, so use them on your packages. Stamp your own Christmas trees with sponge painting and add the poms for a 3D effect.

The next two designs from designcaller.com do away with traditional gift wrap paper, and instead use something of the theme of the gift or interests of the recipient. In these examples, a map for the traveler, and sheet music for the musician!

These last two designs from bestdesignoptions and bridelink.com have a natural and earthy look that I love.