Few things are as satisfying as handing over a beautifully wrapped present - whether it's for a birthday, a wedding, or a spur-of-the-moment thank you. Yet, for many of us, the art of gift wrapping can seem daunting. Should you go classic or quirky? Do you really need all those fancy ribbons? And what on earth do you do when you've run out of wrapping paper? Here's your go-to guide for making every parcel look marvellous, no matter your budget or time crunch.
Gift Wrapping Materials: Beyond the Usual Paper
While rolls of printed wrapping paper remain a firm favourite, there are plenty of creative - and eco-friendly - options out there. Kraft paper is a timeless choice, offering a blank canvas for your own decorations, whether that's a splash of watercolour, a doodle, or a stylish twine bow. For a personal touch, try using old maps, newspaper sheets, or pages from a glossy magazine. If you're keen on sustainability, fabric wraps (like the Japanese furoshiki method) can be re-used and look effortlessly elegant. Even brown paper bags can be snipped and taped into service in a pinch.
Popular Gift Wrapping Styles
Gift wrapping is as much about style as substance. Some popular approaches include:
- Classic crisp corners: Neat folds, sharp edges, and a matching ribbon - timeless and always impressive.
- The layered look: Stack up a few different papers or add a band of contrasting paper around the middle for a boutique feel.
- Minimalist: Think plain paper with a single piece of natural twine or a sprig of rosemary tucked under the ribbon for rustic charm.
- Decorative details: Add tiny bells, baubles, or dried flowers to elevate even a simple wrap job.
- Fabric wraps: Use a colourful scarf or tea towel for the wrap itself - a gift within a gift!
Gift Wrapping Tools: The Basics and the Brilliant
Every well-stocked wrapping station has a few must-haves. Sharp scissors make all the difference, especially if you want clean lines or to curl ribbon. Double-sided tape is a game changer for invisible joins, while standard sticky tape is always reliable. A sturdy ruler or bone folder will help you achieve those super crisp folds. If you love a bit of extra flair, invest in some metallic pens, glue dots, or a hole punch for DIY gift tags. Don't forget: a tidy work surface can save a lot of faff and frustration.
No Wrapping Paper? No Problem!
We've all been there - a present to wrap and not a scrap of wrapping paper in sight. Don't panic. Try one of these clever alternatives:
- Tissue paper or napkins: Layer them for extra coverage, then secure with string or a spare hair tie.
- Magazine pages or newspapers: Choose pages with bold graphics or headlines for a modern twist.
- Brown paper bags: Cut along the seams and use the flat panels to wrap small items.
- Fabric: Use a tea towel, scarf, or even an old pillowcase for larger gifts - bonus points if the fabric becomes part of the gift.
- Old envelopes or shopping bags: Decorate with doodles, stickers, or a hand-written message for a personal touch.
Quick-Fire Gift Wrapping Tips & Tricks
- Keep a stash of ribbons, string, and spare tags for emergencies - old Christmas crackers often yield treasures.
- Secure loose ends with a dab of glue if tape isn't holding, but don't go overboard or the recipient will never get in!
- Use a hairdryer to soften stubborn creases in reused paper or to remove price stickers without a trace.
- If you're really short on time, pop your gift in a decorative bag with some tissue paper and a smile. It's the thought that counts, after all.
Final Thought: It's the Presentation, Not Perfection
Remember, a thoughtfully wrapped gift is always a delight - creases, improvised materials, and all. The care you put in will shine through, whether you're wielding designer paper or last night's newspaper. So next time you've a gift to give, enjoy the process. Who knows? You might even start looking forward to the wrapping as much as the giving.