27 Vintage Christmas Wrapping Paper Designs to Bring Back Nostalgia

The holiday season always comes with a sense of magic. One of the most joyful traditions is wrapping gifts with love and creativity. While modern wrapping papers are everywhere, there’s something truly special about vintage Christmas wrapping paper designs. They carry a sense of nostalgia, warmth, and timeless beauty. Many of us remember opening gifts wrapped in charming prints of the 1950s, 60s, or 70s. They weren’t just paper; they were pieces of art that added excitement even before the present was opened.

In this guide, we’ll explore 27 vintage Christmas wrapping paper designs that can inspire you this season. Each design tells a story, bringing together tradition, sentiment, and creativity. You can recreate these looks or mix them with modern elements for a personal twist. Think of this as a journey through Christmas history, one wrapping paper at a time.

1. Retro Santa Print

Nothing says Christmas like the jolly Santa Claus of the 1950s and 60s. These prints often showed Santa with rosy cheeks, twinkling eyes, and a sack full of toys. Using this wrapping paper instantly sparks memories of classic Coca-Cola ads and cheerful holiday cards. The retro Santa design works well for both kids and adults. You can pair it with a red ribbon or a white bow to make the look complete.

2. Tartan Plaid

Plaid wrapping paper is timeless. It’s warm, cozy, and filled with Scottish heritage. Vintage Christmas versions usually came in deep greens, reds, and golds. Wrapping your gifts in plaid feels like wrapping them in a warm holiday blanket. This design looks especially stunning under the Christmas tree, bringing balance to all the bright colors around. Add a velvet bow for an authentic vintage finish.

3. Victorian Angels

Angel prints were popular in the early 1900s. These Victorian angels had soft, golden tones and often carried candles or trumpets. Using angel wrapping paper adds elegance and spirituality to your gifts. It’s perfect for religious families or anyone who appreciates a classic, graceful touch. A cream ribbon or lace bow can elevate the old-world charm even more.

4. Old-Fashioned Snowmen

Snowmen have always been a cheerful part of Christmas. Vintage snowman wrapping paper often showed them wearing top hats, scarves, and carrot noses. These playful designs remind us of outdoor snowball fights and childhood winters. Pairing this design with a blue or silver ribbon makes it sparkle even more.

5. Vintage Toy Print

Back in the day, wrapping paper often featured classic toys like rocking horses, teddy bears, and toy drums. These prints feel especially nostalgic because they remind us of simpler times when kids cherished wooden toys. Using this design is like wrapping gifts with pieces of childhood history. A bright ribbon makes it extra playful.

6. Red & Green Stripes

Sometimes the simplest designs are the most powerful. Red and green stripes have been around for decades, representing the core Christmas palette. This vintage look is bold, cheerful, and versatile. You can use it for adults, kids, or office gifts. Pair it with gold ribbon for an extra pop.

7. Rustic Kraft Paper

One of the most authentic vintage Christmas wrapping styles is using plain kraft paper. In the past, many families wrapped gifts with brown paper tied with twine. This natural look feels homely and eco-friendly. Add pine sprigs, cinnamon sticks, or a wax seal for a cozy farmhouse vibe.

8. Golden Bells

Bells symbolize joy and togetherness. Vintage bell prints often had gold foil detailing that shimmered under Christmas lights. Using this design adds a touch of elegance while keeping the festive spirit alive. Match it with metallic ribbon to enhance its charm.

9. Candy Cane Motif

Who doesn’t love candy canes? These striped sweets became popular on wrapping paper in the 1940s and 50s. They represent sweetness, fun, and holiday cheer. Wrapping with this design feels playful and bright. Adding a small candy cane on top of the gift makes it even more personal.

10. 1950s Holiday Ads

Mid-century wrapping paper often featured bold, graphic designs inspired by 1950s advertising. These patterns had retro fonts, quirky Santa art, and cheerful slogans. Using this style today feels unique and nostalgic. It’s a great way to stand out with a truly vintage-inspired wrapping choice.

11. Snowflake Patterns

Snowflake wrapping paper has always been a classic. Vintage versions often had detailed, hand-drawn flakes in blue, white, or silver. This design feels crisp and fresh, just like winter mornings. Pair it with a navy blue ribbon for an elegant icy look.

12. Nutcracker Prints

Inspired by the famous ballet, nutcracker-themed wrapping papers became popular in the mid-20th century. They featured soldiers, ballerinas, and festive stage scenes. This design brings a cultural and artistic flair to Christmas wrapping. A satin bow makes it look like a true masterpiece.

13. Poinsettia Blooms

Poinsettias are Christmas flowers that symbolize good cheer. Vintage wrapping paper with poinsettia prints often came in bold reds and greens with gold accents. It looks festive and elegant at the same time. Adding a red velvet ribbon makes this design truly shine.

14. Classic Holly

Another evergreen favorite is holly print wrapping paper. Holly berries and leaves have been holiday icons for centuries. Vintage versions carried hand-drawn, detailed leaves. Wrapping gifts in this style adds natural beauty and tradition. A green satin bow is the perfect finishing touch.

15. Christmas Postcards

Some vintage wrapping papers were designed to look like old postcards and letters. They often had handwritten messages, stamps, and snowy images. Wrapping gifts this way feels like sending a holiday greeting wrapped around your present. It’s nostalgic and unique, especially for family gifts.

16. Retro Ornaments

The 1960s loved bright, bold Christmas ornament prints. These designs included colorful baubles, tinsel, and glass decorations. Wrapping with this design feels cheerful and lively. Add a metallic bow to highlight the playful colors.

17. Patchwork Quilt Style

Inspired by handmade quilts, this wrapping paper design brings coziness and warmth. Vintage patchwork prints often mixed checks, stars, and holiday motifs. It’s perfect for a homely, crafty look. A simple string bow makes it even more authentic.

18. Toy Train Prints

Toy trains circling the Christmas tree are a timeless image. Vintage wrapping papers often celebrated this with whimsical train prints. Wrapping with this design makes children feel extra excited. Pair it with a bright red ribbon for the perfect holiday cheer.

19. Nordic Knitting Pattern

Scandinavian designs became popular in the 70s and 80s. These papers looked like knitted sweaters, with reindeer, snowflakes, and geometric patterns. They bring a cozy, wintery feeling. A simple white ribbon completes the look.

20. Gingham Red & White

Gingham print feels country-inspired and timeless. Red and white gingham wrapping paper gives gifts a cheerful, homely feel. This design looks especially good for baked goods or handmade presents. Pair it with twine for an authentic farmhouse touch.

21. Snowy Village Scenes

Vintage artists often painted snowy villages on wrapping paper. These scenes showed cottages with glowing windows, horse-drawn sleighs, and snowy streets. Wrapping gifts in this design feels like wrapping them in a holiday painting. A gold ribbon enhances the classic winter charm.

22. Candlelight Print

Candle imagery has always symbolized hope and warmth. Vintage candle wrapping paper often featured glowing candles with pine branches. This design adds a peaceful, spiritual touch. A red ribbon ties it all together beautifully.

23. Gingerbread Motifs

Nothing feels more festive than gingerbread men and houses on wrapping paper. Vintage designs often came in warm, cookie-like tones. Wrapping gifts this way feels playful and sweet. A candy-inspired ribbon makes it even more fun.

24. Music Sheet Wrap

In the past, some families wrapped gifts using old Christmas carol sheets. This style looks musical and vintage at the same time. It’s perfect for anyone who loves Christmas carols. Pair it with a golden bow for a classy finish.

25. Frosted Pinecones

Pinecones have always been part of winter décor. Vintage wrapping papers often had frosted pinecone prints with snowy touches. This design feels natural and elegant. A brown ribbon or twine makes the look complete.

26. Embossed Gold Foil

Gold foil wrapping was a luxury in the past. Some papers were embossed with gold patterns like stars, bells, or angels. This vintage design feels rich and sophisticated. Add a black or deep green ribbon for contrast.

27. Retro Cartoon Characters

Finally, the most playful vintage wrapping papers featured cartoon characters like Mickey Mouse, Snoopy, or Frosty. These prints make children smile instantly. Wrapping with this design feels fun and lighthearted. A bright bow completes the cheerful vibe.

Final Thoughts

Choosing vintage Christmas wrapping paper designs isn’t just about style. It’s about capturing memories, honoring traditions, and creating joy even before the gift is opened. Each of these 27 designs has a story to tell, from the elegance of angels to the cheer of cartoon characters. Whether you buy vintage-inspired papers or recreate them yourself, these ideas will make your Christmas extra special.