It might seem like wrapping a gift should be straightforward, but certain mistakes can result in a sloppy-looking package and/or a lot more work. From crooked creases to excess paper, from loose ribbon to inappropriate paper, there are several potential issues to avoid.
The good thing is that most of these pitfalls are very easy to correct, once you are aware of them.
1. Using Too Much Wrapping Paper
Cutting a sheet of wrapping paper that’s far too large for the box is one of the most common errors.
Excessive paper leads to thick corners and unnecessary bulk. It can also make it harder to get crisp folds.
Before you cut, lay the box down on top of the wrapping paper and ensure the paper extends past the halfway point on each side of the box. That way you’ll have enough paper to wrap the box without adding excess layers.
2. Using Too Little Paper
Using too little wrapping paper can be just as problematic.
If the paper doesn’t completely cover the box, you could end up having to stretch the paper and/or revealing part of the box.
Measure out the gift before you cut the paper, allowing for a little bit of extra paper for adjustments. It’s better to trim off a little extra paper than to try to patch together a sheet that was too short.
3. Ignoring the Orientation of the Design
When using patterned wrapping paper, take care to position it appropriately.
If the pattern has a specific orientation, like a line of stripes, text or a drawing, consider how the pattern will be oriented once the gift is wrapped.
Before making your first fold, take a minute to orient the paper properly. A quick couple of seconds of forethought can keep you from ending up with a weirdly oriented pattern on your finished package.
4. Making Loose or Uneven Creases
Crisp folds are one of the simplest ways to make your wrapping job look neat.
Paper that isn’t tight enough will create wrinkles and thick edges, while uneven creases can make the entire package look lopsided.
While wrapping, hold the paper with just a little pressure to keep it smooth and use your fingers to create sharp edges. You don’t need to apply a lot of force, just maintain even tension.
5. Applying Too Much Tape
Tape is a minor detail, but it can impact the overall appearance of the finished package.
Big pieces of visible tape can take away from the wrapping paper and make the package look less polished.
Use small pieces of tape when you can and place them in spots that will be hidden by the folds. For some types of wrapping, double-sided tape will give you a more refined finish.
6. Adding Too Many Decorations
While ribbons, bows, tags, flowers, stickers, and other decorations can spice up your gift wrapping, adding too many at once can be overwhelming.
Begin with a single focal point, and only add more if it adds to the design.
Sometimes the most professional-looking gift wrap is a simple package tied with a nice ribbon.
7. Not Considering the Color Palette
Your wrapping paper and decorations should coordinate.
You don’t need to match everything. You should have a cohesive color palette, however.
For example, a neutral-colored paper might look better with a bold ribbon, whereas a bold, printed paper might look better with a subtle decoration.
Consider your entire gift wrapping design when selecting materials.
How to Make Your Gift Wrapping Look More Polished
Most professional-looking gift wrapping isn’t done using special techniques; it’s simply done well.
Know what you need before you begin, measure your gift before you wrap, and decide what you want the end result to look like.
Clear your workspace, make clean folds, and fix mistakes immediately rather than covering them up.
Practice With Different Types of Gifts
Gift boxes are a good place to start, but not every present is a perfect box.
Once you’ve mastered the basics, try wrapping:
- Smaller boxes
- Tall gifts
- Flat presents
- Cylinders
- Anything weird-shaped
There isn’t one way to wrap every type of gift, but knowing how to measure, hold the paper taut, and make crisp folds will help.
Pay Attention to the Finishing Touches
The last couple of steps will make a big difference in how professional your gift wrapping looks.
Ensure the corners are tight, trim excess paper, tape securely, and place your ribbon or bow neatly. Then take a step back and consider the whole gift. It should look polished from every angle.
The Bottom Line
Gift wrapping well requires preparation, skill, and attention to detail. Measure first, hold the paper taut, make clean folds, and use decorations wisely. Don’t rush!
Over time, you’ll build the right habits, and you’ll be able to create neat, professional-looking gift wrapping quickly and easily.