One of my favorite things about Christmas is wrapping gifts. I love paper, color, pattern and creating things with my hands; it’s in the soothing satisfaction of wrapping gifts that these pleasures mingle. Neatly cut strips of tape, pristinely folded corners, carefully coordinated color schemes, ribbons curled or tied into bows with just the right amount of spring—the pleasure of getting these little details right makes my toes curl with satisfaction every time.

Living in Amsterdam, I’ve learned that gift-wrapping is a free service that comes with purchases not only at Christmastime, but pretty much all year round. While ringing up your purchase, most store cashiers—whether at a big department store or a tiny mom-and-pop shop—will ask you if it’s a cadeau, or gift.

I’m not usually one to have my presents wrapped (that’s like… like cheating!), but when the offer came from the lady behind the counter at Tangram, a tiny gift shop on the Herenstraat crammed with quirky design goods, I caved in. Not only did I leave with two quirkily wrapped presents, but also with an easy, inexpensive and inspiring gift-wrapping idea to share!