Wrapping presents is an art form that can be both frustrating and rewarding. But if you want your presents to look their best, it’s worth taking the time to learn how to do it right. Here are a few tips to help you get started.
First, choose the right paper. Not all wrapping paper is created equal. Some papers are thicker and more durable than others, while some are more delicate and tear easily. If you’re wrapping a heavy or fragile gift, choose a thicker paper that will provide more support. If you’re wrapping a small or delicate gift, you can use a thinner paper that will be easier to work with.
Next, measure the paper. You want to cut the paper so that it’s just big enough to wrap around the gift with a little overlap. To do this, measure the length and width of the gift and add 2 inches to each measurement. This will give you the size of the paper you need to cut.
Prepare the Present
Before you start wrapping, take the time to prepare your present and materials. This will help ensure a neat and secure finish.
1. Flatten the Present
For oddly shaped or bulky items, flattening them out will make wrapping easier. You can do this by applying pressure to the item or placing it under a heavy object. If the item has sharp edges, you may want to pad them with tissue paper or bubble wrap to prevent tearing the wrapping paper.
Tips for Flattening Presents
| Item Type | Flattening Method |
|---|---|
| Clothes | Fold or roll the clothes neatly. |
| Books | Lay the books flat and stack them with weights on top. |
| Toys | Disassemble any removable parts and flatten the main body. |
| Stuffed Animals | Place the stuffed animal in a large plastic bag and vacuum out the air. |
Cut the Wrapping Paper
Calculating the wrapping paper’s dimensions is crucial for precise and aesthetically pleasing wrapping. The table below provides a step-by-step guide, along with formulas, to determine the required amount of paper:
| Measurement | Formula |
|---|---|
| Length of paper | 2 x (length of gift + width of gift) + 2 inches |
| Width of paper | 2 x (height of gift + depth of gift) + 2 inches |
Here’s an example:
| Measurement | Gift Dimensions | Paper Dimensions |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 10 inches (length) + 5 inches (width) | 2 x (10″ + 5″) + 2″ = 34 inches |
| Width | 3 inches (height) + 4 inches (depth) | 2 x (3″ + 4″) + 2″ = 22 inches |
Fold the Corners
With the paper spread flat on the table, place the present in the center, perpendicular to the edges.
Fold the bottom right corner up and over the present, creating a triangle shape.
Repeat with the bottom left corner, overlapping the right triangle slightly.
Secure the corners with tape or clips, ensuring they are firmly attached.
Next, fold the top right corner down towards the bottom, overlapping the previously folded triangles.
Repeat with the top left corner, ensuring it overlaps the right triangle slightly.
Secure the corners with tape or clips, creating a stable and secure base for the present.
For extra stability, you can add a strip of tape along the center where the triangles overlap.
Tips for Precise Folding
To achieve precise and clean-looking folds, follow these additional tips:
| Step | Tip |
|---|---|
| 1 | Use a sturdy wrapping paper that won’t tear or crease easily. |
| 2 | Align the edges of the paper carefully with the edges of the present to create sharp folds. |
| 3 | Crease the folds firmly using a ruler or a bone folder to ensure crisp and defined lines. |
| 4 | Use plenty of tape to secure the corners and prevent them from coming loose. |
| 5 | Practice makes perfect! The more you wrap presents, the more proficient you will become at folding precise and beautiful corners. |
Secure the Sides with Tape
Once the ends are secured, it’s time to reinforce the sides of the present. This will help keep the wrapping paper taut and prevent it from tearing or bunching up. Follow these steps:
- Work in small sections: Don’t try to tape the entire side of the present at once. Instead, divide it into smaller sections and work on each one separately.
- Use clear tape: Clear tape is less visible and will blend in seamlessly with the wrapping paper. Avoid using colored or patterned tape, as it can detract from the overall appearance of the present.
- Apply evenly: Press down firmly on the tape as you apply it, but be careful not to tear or wrinkle the wrapping paper. Keep the tape close to the edge of the paper for a clean look.
Here’s a table summarizing the steps for securing the sides with tape:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Divide the side of the present into smaller sections |
| 2 | Use clear tape and apply evenly |
| 3 | Keep the tape close to the edge of the wrapping paper |
Create a Top and Bottom Fold
1. To secure the gift, lay the paper with the pattern facing down, then bring the top and bottom edges of the paper together, ensuring that they overlap by at least 2 inches.
2. Fold the lower edge up to meet the top edge and secure it with tape. Repeat this process with the top edge, folding it down to meet the bottom edge and securing it in place.
3. With the gift upright, bring the right and left sides of the paper together, overlapping them by at least 1 inch.
4. Fold the lower right corner up to meet the upper left corner and secure with tape. Repeat this process with the lower left corner and upper right corner.
5. To create a neat and secure fold, use double-sided tape or glue dots:
| Edge to be Folded | Tape or Glue Dot Placement |
|---|---|
| Top Edge | Apply tape or glue dots along the top edge, about 1 inch from the center. |
| Bottom Edge | Apply tape or glue dots along the bottom edge, about 1 inch from the center. |
| Right Edge | Apply tape or glue dots along the right edge, about 2 inches from the top and bottom edges. |
| Left Edge | Apply tape or glue dots along the left edge, about 2 inches from the top and bottom edges. |
Use Ribbon or Twine for a Finishing Touch
Once you’ve wrapped your present and secured it with tape, the final touch is adding a ribbon or twine for a polished and festive look. Here are some steps to achieve this:
1. Choose your ribbon or twine: Select a ribbon or twine that complements the color and design of the wrapped present. You can choose a thin ribbon for a delicate touch or a wider ribbon for a bolder statement.
2. Measure and cut the ribbon: Measure the length of the ribbon required to go around the present twice, with enough extra for tying. Cut the ribbon to the desired length.
3. Tie the ribbon around the present: Place the ribbon on the top of the present and bring the ends together at the bottom. Tie the ribbon tightly, making a double knot for security.
4. Tie a decorative bow: Create a classic bow by making loops with the ends of the ribbon. Cross the loops over each other and pull them tight to form the bow. You can adjust the size and shape of the bow as desired.
5. Secure the bow: Use a bit of tape to secure the bow to the present, ensuring it stays in place.
6. Customize with embellishments: To add an extra touch of personal style, consider incorporating embellishments into your ribbon or twine. Here are some ideas for embellishments:
| Embellishment | How to Use |
|---|---|
| Bells: | Attach small bells to the ribbon or twine for a festive touch. |
| Beads: | Thread beads onto the ribbon or twine for a shimmering effect. |
| Foliage: | Incorporate fresh or artificial foliage, such as holly or pine, to give the present a natural charm. |
| Ornaments: | Attach small ornaments to the ribbon or twine for a personalized touch. |
| Tags: | Add a gift tag with a personalized message or holiday greeting. |
Add Gift Tags and Embellishments
Once your gift is wrapped, it’s time to add the finishing touches with gift tags and embellishments. Here are some ideas to make your present stand out:
Gift Tags
- Choose gift tags that complement the wrapping paper and the occasion.
- Write a heartfelt message or a funny joke on the tag.
- Attach the tag to the gift with a ribbon or string.
Embellishments
Embellishments add a touch of personality and flair to your present. Consider using:
- Ribbons in various colors and textures.
- Bows, both pre-tied and DIY.
- Ornaments, such as bells, ornaments, or small figurines.
- Greenery, such as pine needles, holly sprigs, or ivy.
- Glitter, sequins, or beads.
- Homemade decorations, such as paper snowflakes or gingerbread cookies.
- Custom-printed labels with the recipient’s name or a special message.
| Type of Embellishment | Tips for Use |
|---|---|
| Ribbons | Choose ribbons that coordinate with the wrapping paper or gift tag. Tie them in a decorative knot or bow. |
| Bows | Use pre-tied bows for convenience or make your own using ribbon or fabric scraps. Secure them with a dab of hot glue. |
| Ornaments | Attach small ornaments to the gift using wire or ribbon. Choose ornaments that are lightweight and won’t damage the wrapping paper. |
| Greenery | Tuck sprigs of greenery into the bow or around the base of the gift. Secure them with floral wire or tape. |
| Glitter | Sprinkle glitter sparingly over the wrapped gift for a touch of sparkle. Use a light hand to avoid making a mess. |
Gift Wrapping for Special Occasions
9. Extra Tips for Wrapping Round Presents
1. Use double-sided tape: Secure the paper firmly by using double-sided tape on the seam and edges. This will prevent the paper from unraveling or shifting.
2. Cut the paper generously: Allow for plenty of paper to wrap around the present. This will ensure that you have a neat and secure finish.
3. Fold the paper diagonally: Place the present in the center of the paper and fold one corner diagonally across to the opposite corner. Repeat with the other two corners.
4. Secure the paper with tape: Place tape over the diagonal edges to hold them in place. This will create a secure pocket for the present.
5. Fold the sides in: Fold the sides of the paper inward to overlap the edges of the present. Secure them with tape.
6. Fold up the bottom: Bring the bottom edge of the paper up to meet the top edge. Fold it over and secure it with tape.
7. Wrap the present: Roll the present tightly in the paper, starting from the top. Overlap the edges and secure them with tape.
8. Finish with tape or ribbon: Seal the ends of the paper with tape or tie a ribbon around the center of the present to finish.
9. Additional Tips:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a sharp scissors | Ensure precise cuts for cleaner wrapping. |
| Utilize weights | Place weights on wrapped presents to prevent them from rolling. |
| Consider layering paper | Add texture and interest by wrapping with multiple layers of paper. |
| Accessorize with ribbon | Enhance the presentation with decorative ribbon in various colors and patterns. |
| Add personal touches | Include handwritten notes, stickers, or small embellishments to make the gift unique. |
How to Wrap Round Presents
Wrapping round presents can be a challenge, but it’s definitely doable with a little patience and practice. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
- Gather your materials. You will need wrapping paper, scissors, tape, and ribbon (optional).
- Prepare your present. If your present is not already round, you will need to shape it into a round form. You can use crumpled newspaper or tissue paper to fill in any gaps.
- Cut your wrapping paper. You will need a piece of wrapping paper that is large enough to wrap around your present twice. Cut the paper to the desired size.
- Wrap your present. Place your present in the center of the wrapping paper. Fold the paper over the present and secure it with tape. Be sure to tuck in the edges of the paper as you go.
- Fold the ends of the paper. Fold the ends of the paper over the top of the present and secure them with tape. This will help to keep the paper in place.
- Add ribbon (optional). If desired, you can add a ribbon around the present. Tie the ribbon in a bow and trim the ends.
People Also Ask About How to Wrap Round Presents
How do you wrap a round gift without tape?
You can wrap a round gift without tape by using a technique called the “origami wrap.” This technique involves folding the paper around the gift in a series of precise folds. You can find instructions for the origami wrap online.
What is the best way to wrap a round gift with ribbon?
To wrap a round gift with ribbon, start by wrapping the paper around the gift as usual. Then, tie the ribbon around the gift and secure it with a bow. You can also use the ribbon to create a decorative design on the top of the gift.
