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Don't throw out all that old and use wrapping paper that is left after Christmas. Recycle it. Here are ten ways you can reuse your Christmas wrapping paper.

1. Cut out Christmas or snowflake shapes. Stick the shapes on card. Add a tie and hang it on the Christmas tree.

2. Fold wrapping paper lengthwise. Cut out the shape of a Christmas tree, where the edges are touching the folds. Unfold the paper to reveal a chain of Christmas trees.

3. Give children a piece of paper. Ask them to create a Christmas design using wrapping paper, glue and scissors. Laminate it and use it as a placemat.

4. Cut wrapping paper into strips. Make them into links and create a link chain.

5. Cut small pieces of card. Use wrapping paper to cover the back and create a frame on the front. Write a bible verse inside the frame. Attach a tie and hang it from the tree.

6. Use pieces of wrapping paper to make a nice bookmark. Keep it yourself or give it to someone.

7. Use pieces of wrapping paper to make a nice bow to place on top of a present.

8. Make party hats. If you only have small pieces of wrapping paper, make party hats for dolls or teddy bears.

9. Make Christmas crackers. Old cards can be used for the tube. Wrap in old wrapping paper. Fill with a toy, a bible verse or a sweet.

10. Wrap small lollies or sweets. Attach a number (1 to 24) and use them as next year's advent calender. You can also write a message on the back of the wrapping paper or insert a message inside.

For more ideas on how to reuse Christmas items, including wrapping paper, cards, boxes and food, see Liz Palmer's new book, Over 61 ways to reuse Christmas items.

Copyright Liz Palmer 2005