How to Wrap a Gift Like a Pro (Even If You’re All Thumbs)

A beautifully wrapped gift builds anticipation before the paper even comes off. And despite what crumpled corners and tape-covered seams might suggest, wrapping like a pro isn’t a talent. It’s a technique anyone can learn.

Follow this step-by-step guide for crisp edges, invisible tape and a bow that gets an “oh my!” every time.

What You’ll Need

  • Wrapping paper (thicker paper is easier to fold and tears less)
  • Sharp scissors
  • Double-sided tape for an invisible finish
  • Ribbon or twine
  • Gift tags
  • A clean, flat surface

How to Wrap a Box Step by Step

  1. Measure the paper. Place the box on the paper and wrap the paper around it, allowing about 2 inches (5 cm) of overlap. For the ends, you need a little more than half the height of the box on each side.
  2. Cut a clean, straight line. Once you’ve started a cut, you can often glide slightly open scissors along the paper for a smooth edge.
  3. Position the box. Place it top-side down in the center of the paper, so the seam ends up on the bottom.
  4. Wrap the long sides. Pull one side up and over the box. Fold the edge of the other side under by about half an inch (1 cm) for a neat finish, then secure it with double-sided tape.
  5. Fold the ends. At one end, push the top flap down against the box. Crease the two side flaps inward to form a triangle at the bottom, then fold that triangle up and tape it in place. Repeat on the other end.
  6. Sharpen the edges. Run your thumbnail along each edge of the box to create crisp, professional-looking lines.
  7. Add the finishing touches. Add ribbon, a bow and a tag.

Pro tip: less is more

The most common wrapping mistake is using too much paper. Excess paper creates bulky, messy ends. Trim it back so the end flaps just meet, and your corners will look sharp every time.

How to Tie a Perfect Ribbon

  1. Lay the ribbon under the box and bring both ends up to the top.
  2. Cross them over, turn the ribbon 90 degrees and wrap it around the other direction.
  3. Bring both ends back to the center and tie a tight knot.
  4. Tie a bow with the loose ends, adjusting the loops so they’re the same size.
  5. Trim the tails at an angle or into a “V” shape to stop them from fraying.

Want curly ribbon? Run the edge of a closed scissor blade firmly along a length of curling ribbon and watch it spring into spirals.

How to Wrap Awkward Shapes

Round or Cylinder Gifts

Roll the paper around the gift and tape the seam. At each end, make small pleats by folding the paper toward the center, working your way around, then secure with tape or cover with a bow.

Soft Gifts

Clothing, plush toys and other soft items are much easier to wrap if you place them in a box first. Alternatively, fold them neatly in tissue paper and pop them in a gift bag.

Bottles

Roll the bottle in paper, gather the paper at the neck and tie it with ribbon. The finished shape looks festive and hides the gift.

Very Large Gifts

Skip the paper. Drape the gift in a fabric sheet or a large gift bag, or simply tie a giant bow around it.

Eco-Friendly Wrapping Ideas

  • Fabric wrapping: Inspired by the Japanese art of furoshiki, a scarf or tea towel makes a beautiful wrap that becomes part of the gift.
  • Kraft paper and twine: Simple, stylish and widely recyclable.
  • Reused paper: Maps, sheet music, newspaper or kids’ drawings add a personal touch.
  • Reusable gift bags and boxes: Great for gifts you give year after year.

Paper with glitter or a foil finish usually can’t be recycled. A common test: if you scrunch the paper into a ball and it stays scrunched, it can often be recycled; if it springs back, it probably can’t.

Finishing Touches That Get an “Oh My!”

  • Tuck a sprig of greenery, dried flowers or a cinnamon stick under the ribbon.
  • Write a handwritten tag instead of a printed sticker.
  • Layer two coordinating papers for a designer look.
  • Use colorful washi tape as a decorative accent.
  • Add confetti to the tissue paper inside for a surprise when it’s opened.

Conclusion

With the right amount of paper, double-sided tape and a few crisp folds, anyone can wrap a gift like a pro. Add a thoughtful finishing touch, and your gift will feel special long before it’s opened.

Now all you need is something awesome to wrap. Shop gift ideas at OhMyThatsAwesome.

FAQs

How do you wrap a gift without tape showing?

Use double-sided tape and place it under the folded edges, so it’s completely hidden once the paper is pressed down.

How much wrapping paper do I need?

Enough to go around the box with about 2 inches (5 cm) of overlap, and a little more than half the box’s height on each end.

How do I wrap a gift without a box?

Place it in a box if you can. Otherwise, use tissue paper and a gift bag, or wrap it in fabric and tie it with ribbon.

Which wrapping paper is recyclable?

Plain paper and kraft paper are usually recyclable. Paper with glitter, foil or a plastic coating usually isn’t. Try the scrunch test if you’re unsure.