Just because gift cards are a quick and easy holiday gift giving solution, doesn’t mean you should skimp on their presentation.

Here’s a cute solution to giving your gift cards – present them in this little envelope ornament that the recipient can hang on their Christmas tree and cherish long after the card is spent.

Begin by using your paper trimmer to cut a strip of cardstock that measures 4.5 inches wide and 9 inches long. With the patterned side out, fold the strip into thirds, lengthwise. Use a bone folder to crease the folds.

Use your large circle punch to punch a circular notch from the end of the strip.

Run a strip of adhesive or a line of glue along the outer edges (see arrows) of the middle section of the paper strip. Fold the bottom section up and squeeze together.

Punch two small holes along the crease between the top and middle sections.

Use a border punch, or a pair of shaper scissors to give the envelope flap a decorative edge.

Run a length of ribbon or twine through the holes and tie the ends together to create a hanger for your envelope ornament.

Now you’ve created the basic form, and it’s time to have some fun decorating the the outside. Below are three ideas to try. I encourage you to pull out all your punches, paper shapers, and holiday stamps and stickers to and create some unique designs for your friends and family.

Holiday House

For this design, the Up on the Roof Top border punch was used to create the peaks on the house. Begin by punching a border along the edge of a sheet of cardstock. Cut it into sections of varying heights. Use adhesive foam dots to attach the sections to the envelope and build your house. Cut a small rectangle to use as a door and use a tiny brad as a doorknob. Landscape the house with a few tree shapes. Add a wreath. Insert a gift card to a home décor or home improvement store.

Glittery Gifts

For this design, punch out a few trees and a whole lot of presents from an assortment of glittery holiday papers. Trim your trees with a few rhinestones and glue the trees to the card. Attach several rows of gifts using adhesive foam dots to create dimension and build a pile of presents beneath the trees. Add a gift card from their favorite gift shop.

Monogram

Make a little collage using your favorite shapes and border punches. In the center of the card, attach a glittered monogram. Trim with a few jingle bells and insert a gift card.