How To Wrap Presents

This Christmas, follow our wrapping guide and wow your loved ones with your gift-wrapping techniques — thank us later...

What you’ll need

• Scissors

• Tape

• Wrapping paper

• Gift wrap accessories (optional)

No wrapping paper? No problem. The candy cane Christmas print on our paper shopping bags doubles as wrapping paper and gift tags! Just cut along the guidelines for a budget-friendly alternative.

How to wrap a gift, step by step

Step 1: Measure the right amount of wrapping paper

Place the Christmas gift on top of your wrapping paper and measure how much you need to cover the whole gift. Remember: it’s better to have too much paper, than too little.

Step 2: Cut the wrapping paper

Enjoy the satisfying glide of the scissors and cut off the amount of wrapping paper you need.

Step 3: Fold over

Once you have the amount of paper to cover your gift, start wrapping by folding one side of the paper to cover half of the gift. Hold it in place by taping it down to the gift before repeating this step for the other side.

Step 4: Secure the corners

Secure the corners by folding up the edges to a clean triangular shape and taping them tight. Our top hack? Use double sided tape for a polished look.

Step 5: Add the finishing touches

Once all the sides are covered and taped neatly, it’s time for the fun part! Decorate your gift with bows and ribbon or add a written gift tag for a personal touch.

Still shopping? We're here for you! Check out our Christmas Gift Guide for inspiration and ideas.

How to wrap a ribbon bow on presents

Step 1: Cut the ribbon

Measure enough ribbon to go around the present at least twice. The general rule is to cut the ribbon about 2-3 times the width of the box for a nice bow.

Step 2: Position the ribbon

Place the gift-wrapped present upright on a flat surface. Take one end of the ribbon and position it under the present.

Step 3: Wrap the ribbon around

Bring the ribbon around the sides of the present, crossing it at the top. Make sure it’s centered and straight. This will create an “X” shape on top of the present.

Step 4: Tie the ribbon

Flip the present over so the back is facing up. Tie a knot with the two ends of the ribbon to secure it. You can make a simple knot or a double knot for extra security.

Step 5: Make the bow

If you want to make a bow, create loops with the ribbon. For a classic bow, create two loops, one on each side, and tie them together in the center.

Step 6: Adjust and fluff

Adjust the loops and tails of the bow to make them even, and fluff them up to give the bow a fuller appearance.

Step 7: Trim the ends

Cut the ribbon tails at an angle or in a V-shape for a polished look.

Step 8: Secure if needed

Concerned about the ribbon slipping? Use a small piece of tape to secure it underneath.

FAQs

How do I wrap gifts without tape?

Stickers and ribbons are a great gift wrap substitute when you have no tape. Alternatively, the origami wrapping style is a great way to go.

How do I wrap a large box?

To wrap large presents, you’ll need to use more wrapping paper. Don't freak! Make the task a breeze by wrapping the box in sections.

How do I wrap circular gifts?

To wrap a round gift, start by cutting a large square of wrapping paper then place the gift in the center. Bring the paper’s edges up around the gift, gathering it at the top, then twist the gathered paper to secure it. Make sure the gift is fully covered, then tie the twisted part with a ribbon or tape it down for a secure hold.

Prefer a neater finish? Fold the paper evenly around the gift as you gather it at the top. Trim any excess paper, then add a bow or decorative ribbon to finish the look.

How do I wrap with tissue paper?

To wrap a gift with tissue paper, it’s important to use a few sheets until you can’t see through it. Follow the wrapping steps above with extra care to avoid rips and tears.

What's a good alternative to wrapping paper?

Newspaper, fabrics, baskets, boxes and paper bags are great swaps for wrapping paper — get creative!