For the
Harry Potter Holiday Swap (
http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=280152.msg3193406#msg3193406) I created custom packaging made from cereal boxes and an oatmeal container. Then I wrapped them, again, in brown shipping paper & string to look authentically from Diagon Alley shops.
This is what's left of the oatmeal container.
Box for the blood quill and box top for hairstick wands from the cereal box:
(It opens like those old McDonald's fruit pie boxes.)
(It has a subtle linen-like finish by painting with acrylic in one direction with stiff bristle brush; letting it dry; painting across it; and then staining it with a slightly darker color.)
You could definitely use faux parchment to wrap gifts. It's made from regular typing paper or brown paper/sack:
(I used instant coffee and yellow food coloring to stain the parchment.)
The oatmeal container was cut down to fit a "live" (actually knitted) puffskein:
Another really great idea I wanted to create this holiday was to paper mache or decoupage the custom-made boxes using old used wrapping paper/christmas cards, but never had time to. My mom used to decoupage hobby horses with old tissue and wrapping paper and turn them into carousel horses. It turns out all wrinkly textured and lovely.
Hope these are inspiring to someone.
