Wow your loved ones by learning how to wrap a Christmas present with style.
Time 10 - 20 minutes
ComplexityBeginner
Cost$0 - $20
Introduction
Never struggle with gift wrapping again as we show you how to wrap a present perfectly, complete with a festive ribbon bow.
Mastering the art of gift wrapping is a great way to make a big impression! When you learn how to wrap a present properly, you can avoid wasting a lot of wrapping paper and time. The type of tape you use can make a difference — there are tapes available that blend in with the wrapping paper to make them less visible, and double-sided tape can be used to avoid the appearance of any tape. Although this is optional, if you want to go the extra mile, this is how you do it.
Tools Required
- Ruler or tape measure (optional)
- Scissors
Materials Required
- Ribbon
- Scotch double-sided tape (optional)
- Scotch tape
- Wrapping Paper
Project step-by-step (8)
Step 1
Tape the box shut
Secure the box to prevent the gift from spilling out, then flip the box upside down in the center of the wrapping paper area.
Step 2
Measure the length
Wrap the gift wrap around the box, leaving about one to two inches of overhang. Crease the wrapping paper or make a mark with a pen or pencil at this point.
Step 3
Cut the paper to length
Using sharp scissors, cut a straight line from one end of the paper to the opposite edge at your mark or crease.
- Pro tip: Buying wrapping paper with a pre-drawn grid on the back of it makes keeping these lines straight much easier.
Step 4
Cut to width
The wrapping paper should be the box’s width plus roughly 3/4 the height of each side. If you leave yourself too much or too little, folding the ends will be difficult. Measure or eyeball one end, match the same amount on the opposite side, and then cut the paper.
Step 5
Tape the long ends
To secure the long ends together, align the seams in the middle of the bottom of the box or hide the seams on one edge. Ensure the short sides line up and the box hasn’t shifted. Fold the excess paper under, create a crease, and then tape down the first side to the box with regular tape. Align the second side and gently pull on the paper to remove creases and tighten the paper around the box, then secure it with tape or double-sided tape if you want to keep it inconspicuous.
Step 6
Fold the ends
On the ends, flatten the short-end tab against the box side and crease it at the corner so it stays put. While holding the short-end tabs snug against the box, crease triangles into the corners of the overlapping paper to make flaps on the top and bottom of the box. Fold the flap on the bottom side of the box up and tape it to the box’s side. Then, fold the flap on the top side of the box down and tape it on top of the first flap using tape or double-sided tape. Repeat this process on the opposite side of the box.
Step 7
Wrap ribbon around the box
From the spool, pull out a roughly 10-in. “tag” of ribbon. Hold the end of the “tag” at the center of the top of the box and wrap it all the way around the box in one direction. When you get back to the center point of the top of the box, switch directions and wrap it all the way around the box in the other direction. When you get back to the center point of the top of the box from that axis, cut the ribbon so you have 10-in. “tag” ends on each end of the ribbon.
Step 8
Tie a bow
Slide the loose end of the ribbon under the two crisscrossed middle ribbons, then tie a knot with the two ends of the ribbon. On top of the knot, tie a bow with both ends of the ribbon. You can place the Christmas bow in the center of the gift or shift it to one of the corners for an off-centered look.
FAQ
What type of wrapping paper is best for boxes?
Look for wrapping paper with grid lines on the back. Grid lines make planning, measuring, and keeping cuts straight easier.
What type of tape is for gift wrapping?
Scotch tape is an excellent choice for wrapping presents because it is transparent and seamlessly blends with the wrapping paper, providing a secure hold.
How do you choose wrapping paper?
When you’re picking out wrapping paper, consider the different options available. Depending on what you are wrapping, you can choose printed paper for lots of fun designs or kraft paper for something sturdier. If you want to be eco-friendly, consider picking wrapping paper made from sustainable materials.
