GIFT:
Decoupage can transform any plain container into a chic gift. We used a tin bucket, but you can use any container, such as a vase or a wood tray. To start, rip papers into various shapes and loosely arrange them on a table. When you are happy with the design, lightly brush the back of each paper with decoupage medium, available at crafts stores, and press in place on the container. After all the papers are in place, cover them with a coat of decoupage medium and allow it to dry according to manufacturer's instructions. Add ribbon and other embellishments.

TAG:
Trace a star shape onto cream card stock and another onto patterned paper, such as a page from an old book. Cut out the stars using decorative-edge scissors. Glue the patterned star slightly askew over the cream star so both papers can be seen. Glue on a square cutout from the paper of your choice, along with rhinestones or other embellishments. To finish the tag, punch a hole in the top point and thread with ribbon; then tie a bow on to hide the punch.

CARD:
Start with a folded piece of white card stock or a purchased blank card. Glue a large section of the paper of your choice (a vintage holiday card, a sentimental postcard, leftover wrapping paper, etc.) to the front of the card. Sew around the border of the paper using a zigzag stitch. Next, rip pieces of sheet music or other patterned paper and arrange them on top of the card. When you find a combination you like, glue the pieces in place. Embellish the card with rickrack, rhinestones, ribbons, and rubber stamps.

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