Gift wrapping need not always hide the gift inside, especially if the contents are colorful and eyecatching like these pretty little bath soaps.

Add dried flowers and tiny trinkets to the tulle and ribbon wrappings to enhance the visual treat of the package.

Transparent or semitransparent fabrics such as tulle, organza and lace make malleable wrappers that conform to the shape of the bundle and offer the right romantic complement to the soap's subtle pastel color and floral fragrance.

Wooden or frosted glass soap dishes make a solid base for wrapping. Add shells, charms, flowers or other pleasing tidbits to make a luxurious little gift.

Give your gift-soap package a romantic, contemporary or handcrafted look by selecting the appropriate wrapping.

For example a romantic Victorian look can be achieved by using sheer fabrics such as lace, voile, tulle or organza and satin ribbons. Or wrap individual bars of soap with strips of lace or rice paper with impressed with dried leaves or flowers. Nest soap in brightly colored dishes and wrap with clear cellophane and tie with a decorative cord for a contempory look. For a home spun package cradle the soap in straw and tie with a gingham ribbon.

Wrappings for gift-soap bundles should never overpower or hide the content of the package.

• When making tulle bundles, handle shaped soaps, dried rosebuds, and small seashells to avoid damaging.
• Look for small baking tins, baskets, bowls, baskets or boxes to display soaps. Place wood shavings, potpourri or shredded paper inside to cradle soaps and other items.
• You can get creative with the type of paper you use as well. It could be a shredded floral paper, a glittery paper, etc.
• Wrap bar soaps individually or stacked in plain or colored corrugated cardboard, decorative paper, strips of fabric or wide ribbon. Select natural soaps with clean cut edges. Tie with ribbon or raffia.

• Decorative scented soaps
• Decorative wraps:
• tulle, cellophane, colored corrugated cardboard, or decorative fabric (with the edges pinked with pinking shears)
• rative add-ins:
• dried flowers, small seashells or wood shavings
• Scissors or pinking shears
• 1" wide ribbon, twine or raffia
• Small container