Use Extra Wrapping Paper to Transform Your Holiday Table This Year

Do you have a spare roll of wrapping paper that you’re not quite sure what to do with? This easy table decor hack will help you clear out your closet and make your table extra festive at the same time.  Creator Megan Ruffles (@thechicishchick on Instagram) showed her followers how to complete this hack for a gorgeous holiday table. Not only does it make for a striking table runner, but it’s also an easy way to save money on your tablescape.

How to Make a Table Runner Out of Wrapping Paper

Ruffles spreads a full roll of holiday wrapping paper lengthwise down the table, then adds a thinner cloth table runner on top. This creates a layered runner display that’s full of holiday cheer. She then tapes down her paper runner using painter’s tape, though if you add a table runner and additional decor on top of your wrapping paper, you may not feel the need to tape it in place.

Ruffles does recommend using matte rather than glossy wrapping paper, however, as this will make it look more like a classic runner than reused wrapping paper.

The internet is a huge fan of this simple table adornment. “I always put wrapping paper on top of a white tablecloth if there are kids at the table,” one Instagram comment says. “Looks really festive and makes clean up a breeze.” You can easily layer this look on top of your bare table or on another tablecloth if you have one you like to rely on for the holidays. 

Piecing Together Scraps for Your Table

Rather than using a full leftover roll, gently tape leftover pieces from different rolls together to create a patterned display. Adding your extra table runner on top will help you hide the seams.  You can also use your smaller scraps of wrapping paper to create matching table decor, too. Try making a small garland out of wrapping paper chains or paper snowflakes, or use holiday cookie cutters to help you cut your spare paper into festive shapes. 

Give Your Festive Runner a Second Life

If your wrapping paper runner helped catch spills throughout the night, it’s time to throw it away for easy cleanup and a stain-free table. You can also cut out parts that are still usable to save for wrapping paper or additional holiday decor later on. But if your paper table runner has survived without any issues, then you can always roll it back up and use it for your table display next year—or just save it for holiday gifting later on.