Create a gift wrapping corner, table, closet, or box where you can keep everything ready to use. Here are more things to include in your gift wrap kit.Pens - Keep gold, silver, gel, or colored pens available for writing greeting cards and gift tags.
Raffia - Raffia strands are available in natural beige as well as a number of bright dyed colors. They give a homey touch to gifts and are perfect for more country or rustic decors. Use at least 3 strands together when using as ribbon. Knot strands from end to end to make longer lengths for larger gifts.

Ribbons - Passion for beautiful ribbon has increased in recent years. Keep in mind, however, that gorgeous ribbons are often very expensive. Use them for special gifts rather than presents that might be ripped open in the blink of an eye. It will also help to confine the use of special ribbons to smaller items and come up with cheaper alternatives for large bulky gifts.

Glitter Wire - This is a useful item for all sorts of gifts in bags. Glitter wire (or garland) is metallic covered wire with sprays of metallic cutouts (stars, hearts, trees, etc.) bursting out in every direction. Use wire cutters to trim to shorter lengths and use them as "twist ties" to close cello or paper gift bags. Wind the ends around a pencil for a curly finish.

Wired Ribbon - Wired ribbons are becoming widely available. Most offer beautiful colors or sheers with the convenience of wired edges. Making a package look gorgeous is a snap with wired ribbon since you'll be able to "fuss" with the bow to get it looking just right. Trim the ends of wired ribbon on a slant or in a V-shaped "swallow tail" cut.

Bags - Gift bags -- plain, colored, with or without handles -- are terrific for giving items that don't have a box or for gifts that include multiple items. Use ribbon, raffia, or glitter wire to close the top of the bag. Look for inexpensive colored lunch bags (we found purple and green in the photo at right) that might be used to contain party favors or children's gifts.
Alternative gift papers - Many people like the look of using wrapping paper that is homemade. These can be done in brown craft paper (plain or rubber stamped with designs), using the comics as wrapping paper, origami papers for small gifts, wallpaper scraps, old scarves, or even pieces of fabric.

Cording - Metallic cording is a simple but elegant touch on a package. In addition it can be reused easily later on another gift. Collect several colors.

Paper Sleeves - Interesting effects can be made by using wrapping paper strips as ribbons for gifts. Use one or two layers, and tape or glue them in place. These can also be nice for mailed gifts since this is a ribbon that won't get crushed.

Curling Ribbon - This inexpensive narrow ribbon can be curled with the blade of a knife or scissors. It can be somewhat fussy to use, but is colorful and fun for kids gifts. Gather three or four strands of assorted colors and use them together as if they were a single strand. Tie in a knot, leaving about about 12" of end to curl.

Sewing Notions - Martha Stewart is fond of using seam binding as ribbon. Purchase it on her website, or simply go to your local fabric store if you like this look. Browse other sewing notion trims -- rick rack, satin binding, tape, cording -- any of these might be used as ribbon.