In this article: Learn how to create an easy DIY Christmas décor craft. These burlap-wrapped faux presents were inspired by finds in Hobby Lobby and bring a warm, rustic farmhouse feel to your holiday decorating—without a big budget.
Related Articles: Burlap and Flour Sack Tree Topper; Burlap & Flannel Christmas Stockings; Burlap Pillow
Last month I treated myself to a rare trip through the sliding doors of Hobby Lobby. As a Canadian, visits to that store are unusual for me, but this time it sparked a creative idea. After picking up a few items for my dining room shelves, I wandered through the holiday aisles and took note of a few rustic styles I loved. Instead of loading another cart, I decided to recreate the look at home using simple supplies I already had on hand.
The result was a set of burlap-wrapped faux gifts that are quick to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for adding farmhouse charm to shelves, mantels, tabletops, or tucked under a small tree. They look like wrapped presents but are durable and reusable year after year.
DIY Christmas Decor | Burlap Wrapped Gifts
Supplies Needed:
- A small box, wooden block, or piece of styrofoam to wrap (any shape can work)
- Burlap fabric — choose a tightly woven style for a cleaner look
- Scissors or fabric shears
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Plaid fabric (cotton or flannel) or wide cotton strips for the “ribbon”
- Faux Christmas greenery, small pine cones, berries, or other decorative sprigs
Step 1 — Measure and wrap the burlap around the longest edge
Start by wrapping the burlap fabric up and around the longest edge of your chosen base. Cut the burlap so the two ends meet without overlapping. Unlike traditional paper wrapping, you want the burlap edges to but rather than overlap; overlapping can create bulky seams because of the fabric’s thickness.
Once the length is trimmed, run a thin bead of hot glue along the center of the bottom edge and press the ends together. Don’t worry if the seam isn’t perfect—your fabric ribbon will cover it later.
Step 2 — Tidy the side edges for a neat finish
Trim away excess burlap from the sides and bottom so the wrapped piece maintains a flat profile. The goal is to remove bulk where the fabric folds, then fold and glue any remaining side flaps neatly against the base. Working with small cuts and careful folding helps the finished piece look crisp and intentional.
Step 3 — Create and attach the fabric “ribbon”
Rip or cut long strips of plaid or plain cotton fabric to simulate a ribbon. I used torn cotton strips for a homespun look. Measure and cut two strips to cross over the top of the gift—one running lengthwise and one widthwise—then glue them one at a time, securing the ends under the wrapped base. Press firmly until the glue sets.
Step 4 — Add faux greenery and finishing accents
Finish by gluing small sprigs of faux greenery, a mini pine cone, or a cluster of berries at the ribbon intersection. These accents hide any remaining seams and give a festive, polished look. Adjust placement until you’re happy with the balance and scale of the decorations.
Once complete, these faux presents tuck nicely into the corners of shelves, along a mantel, or on the dining table and add understated farmhouse charm to holiday vignettes.
Additional ideas and variations
- Create a centerpiece by arranging several sizes along a tray and surrounding them with candles or greenery.
- Make mini versions for place settings—add a name tag or tiny ornament to personalize each one.
- Stack larger wrapped blocks under a tree to mimic wrapped gifts without the weight or expense of real presents.
- Swap burlap for painted drop cloth or muslin for a softer look, or try white-washed burlap for a farmhouse-chic palette.
- Use seasonal embellishments—dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, or twine—for different styles and scents.
These burlap-wrapped faux gifts are an easy, repeatable craft that deliver big visual impact with minimal cost. They’re perfect for makers at any skill level and can be customized to match your holiday color scheme. Are you planning to make any homemade Christmas décor this year? Share your favorite projects or variations you try—I’d love to hear what you create!
