• Holidays & Entertaining

How To: Wrap a Present

Follow These Eight Easy Steps:

1. 1Gather wrapping materials

   Assemble your present, the wrapping paper, scissors, and tape, and then clear a large, flat surface such as a kitchen table.

2. 2Secure fragile items

   Make sure that anything fragile within your box is wrapped securely and won’t move around or become damaged.
   
   Tip: Use a small piece of tape to keep the box closed.

3. 3Measure out how much paper to cut

   Roll out your wrapping paper—but don’t cut it yet. Place the box in the center of the unfurled paper, upside down, so the seams of the paper will end up on the bottom of the package. Bring the paper up one side and over the top of the box, all the way to the opposite edge. Estimating how much additional paper you’ll need to cover the side of the box that’s not yet covered, cut the paper.

4. 4Secure the paper to the box with tape

   Center the box on the paper. Bring one side of the paper up the side and halfway across the top, affixing it to the box with a piece of tape.

5. 5Fold the other side for a cleaner edge

   Before bringing the second side of paper up and over the first, create a clean seam by folding over the last half-inch or so of the paper, using your fingers to create a tight crease. Now bring this side up so it just overlaps the first one and affix with tape.
   
   Tip: Double-sided tape can be used for a cleaner look.

6. 6Fold the paper on each side of the present

   Starting on one end, fold down the top flap onto the side of the box, creating two little wings at the side. Flatten those in against the box, then fold the remaining triangle of paper up against the box. Fasten it in place with tape.

7. 7Stand the box up and repeat folding to the other side

   Set your box on end, with the side you just worked on facing down, and repeat step 6 on the opposite end.

8. 8Add finishing touches

   Add any ribbon or decorative bows to your gift.
   
   Get More Gift Wrap Help
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