Gift wrapping: tips ‘n’ tricks
Does looking at the mountain of gifts that need wrapping turn your stomach into knots? It certainly doesn’t help if you’ve left your holiday shopping and wrapping to the last minute – it only adds to the pressure of getting it done quickly.
I have always been the go-to person for gift wrapping – especially in the holiday season – so I wanted to share some of the tips and tricks I’ve picked up over the many Christmases of gift wrapping.
With these tips you’ll be on your way to wrapping anything from small gifts to larger presents. Remember practice makes perfect, so don’t be too discouraged if your first few tries don’t have the crisp corners and clean lines you’re after.
So, grab your favourite wrapping paper, scissors, and tape, and start practicing your wrapping skills because Christmas is right around the corner, and let’s face it, it’s always someone’s birthday.
1. Prepare your wrapping workspace:
A general rule of thumb when it comes to any sort of creation is to create your workspace. I prefer to sit on the floor with all my tool beside me. Although some may prefer study tables or countertops. Whatever you choose, make sure the surface, and your hands, are clean.
2. Have the right gift-wrapping tools
No workspace is complete without the proper tools; scissors, tape, a permanent marker, and the optional ribbon. I prefer to use regular tape on a tape dispenser for ease, however a lot of gift-wrapping professionals would suggest the use of double sided tape to create a crisp look.
I like to gather all the things I need before I start, that way I don’t have to stop over and over asking “where’s the tape?”, “where’s the pen?”
3. Use a medium grade wrapping paper
Paper is so important when it comes to any kind of craft. If your wrapping paper is too thin, it will tear easily, allowing packaging corners to poke through. On the other hand, if your paper is too thick, your gift will end up being bulky and chunky. A medium grade paper is ideal for creating nice, sharp creases.
4. Measure before you cut
When wrapping your gifts, you should make sure the wrapping will cover the entire gift. Before you make your cut, pull the paper over the sides of the gift to measure. You want just enough paper on either side so they slightly overlap in the middle. If you’re unsure, use more paper, you can always trim later.
5. If you run out of wrapping paper, make it look like you meant it
Occasionally we all mess up and sometimes don’t cut enough paper (or you end up at the end of your roll). It’s really no big deal. I like to use a belly band to make it look intentionally. You just need to cut a strip of paper, fold it under each edge, and tape it to the other paper.
6. When wrapping cylinders, pleating is key
Cylinders and circular gifts are always such a challenge. There are two methods for dealing with this type of gift: the bon-bon method where you scrunch the paper on each end and tape the ribbon on it, and pleating. Pleating the corners are honestly a better more secure way to wrapping cylindrical gifts.
7. Find your groove
Start with smaller presents and gifts that call for similar wrapping and wrap those in the same session. Once you figure out the steps, you’ll be able to create your own efficient assembly line.
8. Make it a whole vibe
Turn your gift-wrapping session into a soothing ritual with your favourite beverage, music or movie and a candle (away from the paper of course). This way you’ll be able to turn a normally stressful task into something more relaxing.