Gift Wrapping

Decorating a Present with Little Souvenirs from Nature

The small pine cones are a souvenir from a hike at the end of summer. My girlfriend said that they look like little Christmas trees. I took a handful home with me. One possibility is to use them as a gift decorations. Simply wrap a thin nylon thread around the end of pinecones and tie them to the bow. Or you can put them in a small dish and place it on your desk. Maybe add a tiny ornament for sparkle.

foggy forest Stanley Park
white present, white bow

A small present wrapped entirely in white looks beautiful in its simplicity. However, adding a few tiny pinecones gives it a certain je ne sais quoi and makes it feel even more special.

white present, white bow, little pine cones
white present, white bow, acorns are dusted with silver glitter

Acorns also make lovely gift decorations, especially on very small packages, where their delicate size can really be appreciated. On larger packages, they tend to get a bit lost and don’t have quite the same charming effect. Tied to a small parcel with a simple ribbon or a piece of twine, an acorn adds a natural, understated touch and makes the gift feel thoughtful and carefully wrapped. It’s a simple decoration, but it gives even the smallest present a warm and personal character.

white present, white bow, acorns

The acorns were spruced up with a touch of silver glitter, giving them a festive and slightly glamorous look. What is usually a simple little find from a walk outdoors suddenly becomes a charming Christmas decoration. The silver catches the light beautifully and adds just enough sparkle without losing the natural character of the acorn.

Used on gift wrapping, they create a lovely contrast between rustic and elegant — especially when paired with simple paper, ribbon, or twine. It’s a small detail, but details like these are often what make a present feel extra special and thoughtfully prepared.

glitter, acorns

Materials

acorns
glass glitter
glue
brush
water

Instructions

Wash the acorns thoroughly with hot water and let them dry completely. If the cupules separate from the acorns, glue them back on.

Mix the glue with a little bit of water in a flat, small bowl. This makes it easier to spread the glue in thin layers on the acorns. Sprinkle the glitter over the cones with a small spoon. Let the acorns dry on a wire rack.

Tie a thin nylon or a silver thread around the ends to attach to presents.

present wrapped in white adorned with an offwhite ribbon

2014/2026