Introduction
Gift giving is an art, and wrapping presents is an essential part of it. Properly wrapped gifts can create excitement, anticipation, and show the recipient that you put effort and thought into the gift. However, the art of wrapping can feel daunting, especially for those who lack the skills or experience. Don’t worry; this guide will teach you everything you need to know about how to wrap a present like a pro. So, whether you’re wrapping a birthday gift, a Christmas present, or a surprise for a loved one, read on for our ultimate guide to wrapping presents.
Who is this guide for?
This guide is mainly for those who have little to no experience in wrapping presents or those who want to improve their skills. We aim to make the process of wrapping gifts fun and easy to follow. However, even if you’re already a pro at wrapping presents, there are tips and tricks in this guide that you may find useful.
What will you learn from this guide?
In this guide, you’ll learn the following:
| Topic | Description |
|---|---|
| Essential tools and materials | The tools and materials you need to wrap a present |
| Choosing the right wrapping paper | How to choose the right wrapping paper for your gift |
| Measuring and cutting the paper | How to measure and cut the wrapping paper to fit your gift |
| Folding and taping the paper | How to fold and tape the wrapping paper without damaging it |
| Adding embellishments | How to add bows, ribbons, and other embellishments to make your gift stand out |
| Wrapping difficult shapes | How to wrap gifts with awkward shapes, such as bottles or round objects |
| Alternative gift wrapping techniques | How to use non-traditional materials and techniques to wrap your gifts |
| Common wrapping mistakes to avoid | The most common wrapping mistakes and how to avoid them |
| Creative gift wrapping ideas | Unique and creative gift wrapping ideas to make your presents memorable |
| How to wrap gifts for different occasions | Specific tips on how to wrap gifts for different occasions, such as birthdays, weddings, and Christmas |
| How to wrap gifts for different people | Specific tips on how to wrap gifts for different people, such as kids, adults, and coworkers |
| How to wrap multiple gifts | How to wrap multiple gifts at once, such as for a gift basket or gift bag |
| How to ship wrapped gifts | How to ship wrapped gifts without damaging them |
Why is gift wrapping important?
Gift wrapping is important because it shows the recipient that you’ve put thought and effort into the gift. It creates a sense of anticipation and excitement when the recipient tears open the wrapping paper. Gift wrapping is also an opportunity to showcase your creativity and personality. Additionally, wrapping presents can make them easier to transport and protect them from damage.
How to use this guide?
You can use this guide as a reference whenever you need to wrap a present. You can follow the steps in order or jump to the topic that you need help with. Make sure to have all the required tools and materials before you start wrapping. Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you wrap presents, the more comfortable and confident you’ll become.
Essential Tools and Materials
Before you start wrapping a present, make sure you have all the tools and materials required. Here are the essential tools and materials you need:
Wrapping Paper
The first thing you need is wrapping paper. There are different types of wrapping paper available, such as glossy, matte, patterned, and solid colors. Choose the one that suits the occasion and your personal style. You’ll need enough paper to cover the gift, so make sure you measure the gift before selecting the paper.
Tape
You’ll need tape to secure the wrapping paper in place. Clear tape works best, but you can also use double-sided tape or washi tape for a different look.
Scissors
Scissors are essential for cutting the wrapping paper. Make sure to use sharp and precise scissors to avoid jagged edges.
Ribbon and Bow
Ribbon and bow add a decorative touch to the wrapped present. Choose a ribbon that complements the wrapping paper or the recipient’s favorite color. You can tie the ribbon into a bow or use it to make a decorative knot.
Gift Tag
A gift tag is a small card that you can write a message on. It adds a personal touch to the present and helps the recipient know who the gift is from. You can buy pre-made gift tags or make your own using cardstock or scrapbook paper.
Optional Embellishments
You can also add embellishments, such as stickers, fake flowers, or glitter, to the wrapped present to make it more unique and personalized.
Choosing the Right Wrapping Paper
Choosing the right wrapping paper is crucial to making the present look attractive and professional. Here are some tips to help you choose the right wrapping paper:
Consider the Occasion
Consider the occasion you’re wrapping the present for. For example, if it’s a birthday present, you can use bright colors or patterned paper. If it’s a Christmas present, you can use green, red, or gold wrapping paper. If it’s a wedding present, you can use white or pastel colors.
Consider the Recipient’s Style
Consider the recipient’s personal style and preferences. If the recipient likes bold patterns or bright colors, choose wrapping paper that reflects that. If the recipient prefers a minimalist style, choose solid-colored or plain wrapping paper.
Consider the Gift’s Size and Shape
Consider the gift’s size and shape when choosing the wrapping paper. Make sure to choose enough paper to cover the gift entirely. If the gift has an irregular shape, you may need to use more paper or cut the paper to fit the shape.
Measuring and Cutting the Paper
Measuring and cutting the wrapping paper can be tricky, but with the following steps, you can do it like a pro:
Step 1: Measure the Gift
Measure the gift’s length, width, and height using a measuring tape. Add an extra 2-3 inches on each side to ensure that the gift is completely covered.
Step 2: Cut the Paper
Cut the wrapping paper according to the measurements. If you’re using patterned wrapping paper, make sure to align the pattern before cutting. Use a pair of sharp scissors to cut the paper as straight as possible.
Folding and Taping the Paper
Folding and taping the wrapping paper is the most challenging part of wrapping a present. Follow these steps to make sure your gift looks neat and tidy:
Step 1: Place the Gift in the Center of the Paper
Place the gift in the center of the wrapping paper with the right side facing down.
Step 2: Bring the Left and Right Sides of the Paper Together
Bring the left and right sides of the paper together over the gift. Make sure there is enough paper to cover the gift entirely.
Step 3: Fold the Top and Bottom Edges
Fold the top and bottom edges of the paper towards the gift. Make sure to create crisp and sharp edges.
Step 4: Secure the Paper with Tape
Secure the paper with a piece of tape at the top and bottom of the gift. Make sure the tape is not visible from the front of the gift.
Adding Embellishments
Adding embellishments is a great way to make your gift stand out. Here are some ideas:
Ribbon and Bow
Tie a ribbon around the gift and make a bow. You can use a single color or mix and match different colors and patterns. Make sure to tie the ribbon tightly so that it doesn’t fall off.
Gift Tag
Attach a gift tag to the ribbon or bow. Write a personal message on the tag to show the recipient how much you care.
Stickers and Decorative Tape
Add stickers or decorative tape to the wrapping paper to make it more fun and playful. You can use stickers that match the occasion or the recipient’s interests.
Fake Flowers
Stick fake flowers onto the ribbon or directly onto the wrapping paper to make the gift look more elegant and sophisticated.
Wrapping Difficult Shapes
Wrapping gifts with awkward shapes, such as bottles or round objects, can be challenging. Here are some tips to help you wrap difficult shapes:
Bottle
Place the bottle in the center of the wrapping paper. Fold the left and right sides of the paper towards the bottle and tape them in the middle. Fold the top and bottom edges of the paper towards the bottle and secure them with tape. Tie a ribbon or bow around the paper’s neck or base to finish.
Cylinder-Shaped Object
Roll the wrapping paper around the object, making sure to leave an extra 2-3 inches of paper on both sides. Pinch the paper at the top and bottom of the cylinder-shaped object and fold them towards the center, creating a pleat. Tape the paper in the middle and add embellishments to finish.
Round Object
Place the object in the center of a square piece of wrapping paper. Bring the opposite corners of the paper together over the object and secure them with tape. Gather the remaining corners of the paper and fold them towards the center, creating a pleat. Tape the paper in the middle and add embellishments to finish.
Alternative Gift Wrapping Techniques
If you want to be creative and eco-friendly, you can use non-traditional materials and techniques to wrap your gifts. Here are some ideas:
Furoshiki
Furoshiki is a Japanese wrapping technique that uses a square piece of cloth to wrap gifts. You can use a scarf, a handkerchief, or any square piece of fabric. Place the gift in the center of the fabric and wrap the corners around the gift. Tie the ends together to secure the gift.
Newspaper
Use old newspapers to wrap gifts. You can decorate the newspaper with stickers or drawings to make it more fun and interesting.
Burlap
Burlap is a durable and eco-friendly material that can be used to wrap gifts. Tie a ribbon or twine around the burlap to secure the gift.
Common Wrapping Mistakes to Avoid
Wrapping presents can be frustrating, especially if you keep making the same mistakes. Here are some common wrapping mistakes and how to avoid them:
Using Too Much Paper
Using too much paper can make the gift look messy and unprofessional. Measure the gift carefully and use only enough paper to cover it.
Using Too Little Tape
Using too little tape can cause the wrapping paper to come undone. Make sure to use enough tape to secure the paper in place.
Hiding the Design
If you’re using patterned wrapping paper, make sure the pattern is visible on the front of the gift. Secure the paper in the back or on the sides of the gift.
Creative Gift Wrapping Ideas
If you want to make your gifts more unique and memorable, here are some creative gift wrapping ideas:
Color-Coordinated Gifts
Wrap different gifts using the same color scheme. You can mix and match patterns and textures to create a cohesive look.
Festive Gift Topper
Attach a small toy or ornament to the top of the gift instead of a bow or ribbon.
Nature-Inspired Gift Wrap
Use twigs, leaves, or dried flowers to decorate the gift. You can also use a brown paper bag and draw or paint a natural scene on it.
How to Wrap Gifts for Different Occasions
Here are some specific tips on how to wrap gifts for different occasions:
Birthday
Use bright colors or patterned wrapping paper to make the gift look festive. Tie a colorful ribbon or bow around the gift and attach a birthday card with a personal message.
Wedding
Use white or pastel-colored wrapping paper to make the gift look elegant and sophisticated. Tie a satin ribbon around the gift and attach a small wedding card or tag.
Christmas
Use green, red, or gold wrapping paper to make the gift look festive. You can also use wrapping paper with Christmas designs, such as snowflakes or reindeer. Tie a red or green ribbon around the gift and attach a Christmas card.
How to Wrap Gifts for Different People
Here are some specific tips on how to wrap gifts for different people:
Kids
Use colorful and playful wrapping paper to make the gift look fun and exciting. You can also add stickers or use wrapping paper with cartoon characters. Tie a ribbon or bow around the gift and attach a small toy or candy.
Adults
Use solid-colored or patterned wrapping paper to make the gift look sophisticated and elegant. You can also use wrapping paper with a simple design, such as stripes or dots. Tie a ribbon or bow around the gift and attach a small card or tag.
Coworkers
Use simple and neutral wrapping paper to make the gift look professional. Tie a ribbon or twine around the gift and attach a small note with a thank you message.
How to Wrap Multiple Gifts
Wrapping multiple gifts can be time-consuming, but you can do it efficiently with the following steps:
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Gather all the gifts that you want to wrap and the necessary tools and materials.
Step 2: Sort the Gifts
Sort the gifts according to their sizes and shapes. Group the gifts that are similar in size and shape together.
Step 3: Wrap the Gifts
Wrap each gift individually following the steps above. Use a different wrapping paper for each gift or use the same wrapping paper for all the gifts to create a cohesive look.
Step 4: Place the Gifts in a Basket or Bag
Once you’ve wrapped all the gifts, you can place them in a basket or bag. Add tissue paper or shredded paper to fill in the gaps and create a polished look.
How to Ship Wrapped Gifts
If you’re sending a wrapped gift in the mail, make sure to follow these tips to avoid damage:
Use Sturdy Boxes
Choose a sturdy box that can withstand the shipping process. Make sure the box is slightly larger than the wrapped gift to provide cushioning.