A beautifully wrapped present is part of the magic of birthdays. But during a time when there’s a shortage of financial and environmental resources, here are some tips for smart ways to package your next birthday present:

1. Wrap your gift in a gift. One of the simplest ways to keep your wrapping from going to waste is to make it part of the birthday present. A hand-knit scarf, decorative bandanna, or beautiful handkerchief, are perfect materials for wrapping a gift in a gift.

2. Construct boxes out of old cards. If you’re a crafts person, try putting some of your old cards to use. A little bit of cutting, folding, and gluing can turn those old birthday cards from your aunt into a beautiful birthday box! Here’s how.

3. Arrange your birthday present in a gift basket. Gift baskets can be an artful alternative to traditional wrapping. Find one made from natural materials that suits the size of your gift. The basket can be used throughout the year to hold fruit, vegetables, napkins, or anything the recipient chooses.

4. Wrap birthday gifts in a stylish shopping bag. Pretty shopping bags with some colorful, recycled tissue paper are a good way to reuse materials. And brown paper grocery bags can make an exquisite wrapping with a little thought and effort.

5. Substitute postcards for birthday cards that require envelopes. Use a postcard. Postcards are less expensive than cards and generally require about a fourth as much paper as regular cards. A postcard can give your present a unique feel, and is the perfect touch for a birthday present that’s a planned trip or excursion.

6. Use Old Maps. For an antique feel, wrap your presents in old maps. Maps, especially road maps, can become obsolete if you’re moving or buying a GPS system, but they never loose their visual intrigue. If your present is from a place that you’ve traveled, try using one of your old tourists maps to wrap the present for a look that’s authentic.

7. Use a Vintage Tin. Old tins are a fun way to package birthday presents. A decorative tin is so pretty you don’t need wrapping paper, and they are useful long-term as a place to store accessories or goodies. For a celebratory feel, add a homemade, pom-pom bow by following these easy steps.

Got a better idea for how to wrap your next birthday present? Tell us about it in the comments below!