Cute packaging ideas

As Christmas nears, I've been thinking a lot about trying out some new packaging ideas.  I already have a couple of ways I like to package things, but with the new additions to my product line, I've been gathering inspiration!

My favourite type of packaging would be something that is pretty with a handmade appeal.... and EASY!  Who really has time to spend half an hour packaging something up?  I believe that your packaging should represent your product in some way, and leave the customer a little cheerful. When they see that you've put effort into how your packaged product looks, they feel as though you put an equal amount of effort into what's inside! I don't think there is anyone on earth who doesn't feel at least a little special when opening up a pretty gift!

I've been browsing for some cute ideas, and here are a few of my favourites:

Pillow boxes are probably some of the easiest types of packages to dress up.  They already come in a cute shape, and you can find a variety of sizes for whatever your product requires.  Add some cute twine or rope, deco tape, ribbon, a sticker or a doily and you're set!  I love the idea of adding a little "thanks" tag to it also.

How easy is this!!?? Grab some burlap and some twine/rope and add a tag! It's crafty and natural while still showing that extra bit of effort!

Stamps! I am a HUGE fan of stamps. Custom made ones add a real special touch. I purchased my Wonder Forest stamp at JLMould on Etsy. She makes awesome custom stamps!

I also love this idea of a stamped clothespin. Cheap and easy! How cute would it be to stamp it with "Thank you!"?!

I am in love with this type of handmade baggies.  All you do to make one of these is grab a cello bag (you can even use a Ziploc bag) and fold a piece of thick paper over the top. Then staple... or glue shut. You can use these for tons of products or supplies. Hair accessories, buttons or beads... the list is endless.

I've put together a Packaging pin board over at Pinterest if you want to take a look at all of my packaging finds!  I'll be adding to it as I find more!

What I like most about this stuff? It's all so doable. None of the things listed above would take more than 2 minutes to prepare, and the final product looks so polished.

If you need help finding supplies for packaging, just do a search over at Etsy under the Supplies section!

Some Etsy shops to get you started:

PrettyTape - Sells Japanese Masking Tape (deco tape), gift boxes, bags, twine, and more. Ships from Texas.

WonderlandRoom - Sells deco tape, stamps, fabric supplies, stickers and more. Ships from South Korea and has 100% feedback. (<-- always check feedback for shops from China, Korea, Singapore, etc.)

CelestialGifts - Sells muslin bags. This is where I usually get my bags from. Shipping takes a while but they're the cheapest.

sugarbsupplies - Sells deco tape, craft labels, twine, bags, and a bunch more! Ships from Iowa

TheTwinery - sells twine in a bunch of pretty colours. Ships from Pennsylvania

InTheClear - sells lots of paper bags and other packaging supplies! Ships from Texas.

I purchase all of my boxes online at Dunwoody Booth. They have some really cute boxes, bags, and other things, and are the cheapest I've found for the quantities you get, and also have fast shipping. They also have a Fall Sale happening right now with some awesome deals on boxes!!

Do you take the time to package your products up all pretty?  Or as a customer, do you think pretty packaging makes a lasting impression?

xox Dana