A big part of most families' treasured Christmas traditions is the ritual of opening the presents. A big part of getting ready for Christmas is Buying the Presents! Most of us must do our best to save money where we can when doing our shopping.

It's always been my belief that the most inexpensive gift is made special by the wrapping. It's an added pleasure to be able to admire a package before opening.

These are some of the ways I have made our frugal,holiday packages beautiful and special.

This year, I have discovered "Tulle". Tulle is available at discount and craft stores by the yard--in many different colors and in many different widths. I happened to find a spool of white tulle in a 6-inch width (on the clearance rack)and used it for a bow on a birthday present recently. I cut it into a 3-inch width and just wrapped it around the box like ribbon and tied it into a big bow and I was astounded at how good it looked! It's kind of stretchy and is easy to work with, plus it doesn't crush if a gift is going to be mailed.

My other favorite ribbon is the curly ribbon. After Christmas, it's usually available very cheaply and it's so easy to use. Just cut several lengths and curl and glue to the package. No need to buy separate bows! It also makes a gift bag look really festive.

During the year, when a merchant bags my purchases in a paper "gift" bag with handles, I always save them. Even though they may have a store logo or name on them...just cut the front off an old Christmas card and glue it over the logo. Cover the edges with flat ribbon or dimensional paint or glitter if you wish. And there you have a FREE gift bag!

Children (and adults, too!)love to see candy on their packages! Candy canes are fun to use. Place two candy canes flat on the package with their tips together and the curved end at the bottom...you have a Christmas tree shape...top with a star cut from self-adhesive felt or gold paper. Or use the mini-candy canes and make a trio of Christmas tree shapes.

Another idea is to spell out a child's name in small candies. If you don't use wrapped candies, be sure children understand the candies aren't to be eaten.

Wrapping packages can be a fun part of your holidays, if you just let your imagination lead the way!