How to Make Natural Gift Toppers

For many of us, pine cones, berries and evergreen sprigs can be easily sourced from our backyards or a walk through the woods. Gathered together, these bits of nature make a woodsy stand-in for a standard bow.

Different types of Christmas wrapping decorated with nature pine cones aranged in a photo.

Christmas Gift Wrap Nature

Different types of Christmas wrapping decorated with nature pine cones aranged in a photo.

Sometimes the holiday inspiration you’re looking for can be found in your own backyard. Why not turn this nature-inspired gift topper into an afternoon activity for you and the family? Pull on your winter boots and bundle up in scarves, then head out into the great outdoors for seasonal treasures.

Materials Needed

  • hot glue gun and glue sticks
  • craft paper
  • twine
  • seasonal natural elements

CI-Buff-Strickland_Christmas-Gift-Wrap-nature-materials_s3x4

©Buff Strickland

Buff Strickland

Create Base

Pine cones are seasonally appropriate and are practically everywhere this time of year. If you’re unable to find any in your area, craft stores typically carry them in a variety of sizes and colors. Use hot glue to attach two pine cones together, and use this as a base on which to add smaller elements.

CI-Buff-Strickland_Christmas-Gift-Wrap-nature-glue-pinecones_s3x4

©Buff Strickland

Buff Strickland

Add to Wrapped Gift

Arrange additional seasonal elements to your heart’s desire (Image 1). Once you’re happy with the cluster you’ve created, use hot glue to secure the elements. While the glue sets, wrap your gift in craft paper and tie with kitchen twine. Glue your garnish on top to finish (Image 2).

Next Up

Funny, Creative Elf on the Shelf® Ideas Kids Will Love

Christmas is coming, and Santa Claus's Scout Elves are coming to get their final tallies for the nice list. Learn more about the history of Elf on the Shelf® and how to play, plus get fun and crafty Elf on the Shelf® pose ideas to re-create at home.

12 Adorable Buys to Prove Santa Stopped By

Keep Christmas magic alive for little ones with heartwarming hints that Santa Claus is on his way.

How to Make a Chenille-Stem Tabletop Christmas Tree

Create custom holiday decor with this chenille-stem pine tutorial from Stephen Brown at Glitterville Studios.

How to Make a Cardboard Holiday Fireplace

Save those TV boxes from Black Friday and turn them into a charming fireplace for Christmas.

The Best Outdoor Christmas Lights to Make Your House Merry and Bright

After you've decked your halls and your tree, it's time to take the holiday glow outside. We've rounded up the best sparkle and shine for your home's exterior.

How to Dry Oranges and Citrus for Holiday Decorating

Use a dehydrator or your oven to turn oranges and other citrus fruits into colorful and oh-so-fragrant holiday decorations (without burning them).

How to Make Photo Gift Tags

Instead of the usual gift tags, use photos to identify your gift recipients. Old childhood photos or silly pictures will make gift-giving much more fun.

How to Wrap a Gift in Floral Garland

'Tis the season for holiday greenery and florals and, contrary to popular belief, your favorite blooms need not be confined to wreaths and mantels. This year, get crafty to turn dollar- or craft-store faux floral picks into a colorful garland to make your Christmas gifts a seasonal stand-out.

How to Make Personalized Clay Gift Tags

Take your gift over the top this year by adding a handmade gift tag that can even double as an additional present. Personalize stamped clay gift tags and add essential oils to bring in the scents of the season.

How to Top a Gift Using Leftover Fabric Trim

A neatly tied ribbon is a staple when it comes to gift-wrapping, but instead of reaching for a traditional satin option or a ready-made sticky bow, raid your craft stash for leftover gimp, rickrack, bullion or pom-pom trim.

More from:

Deck the Halls

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.