When it comes to gift wrap, it can be $3 to $5 for every package or roll of gift wrap, and usually since you buy it especially for the specific birthday or event, it can be a while before you can use up the leftovers, if the small amount of wrapping paper in the packages was enough in the first place.

Fortunately, there are a few ways you can do gift wrapping on a budget.

Re-use artwork: Your children likely bring artwork projects home from school, and they end up cluttering the house or taking up a box or drawer somewhere. And often, some of these art projects use oversized paper. So select a piece of artwork appropriate to the gift and recipient, and use it for wrapping paper. And your child will be so proud to have his or her artwork on display.

Newsprint roll ends: Keep newsprint rollends on hand. When you need to wrap, give an appropriate sized piece to your kids, and allow them to finger paint or stamp on the paper. Allow to dry, and wrap!

These ideas are a great way to let your children be creative, while putting their art skills to good use... all while saving you money!