subject: 5 Gift Wrapping Tips [print this page] Hopefully you've managed to buy or make the vast majority of your Christmas gifts by now (if you haven't then be sure to read my previous post). All that remains to transform a thoughtful purchase into a dazzling gift is the application of gift wrap of some sort. Wrapping presents is an art form, with some people able to craft intricate and beautiful presents in minutes, whilst others struggle with the paper, wrestle with the adhesive tape and ultimately turn a carefully selected object into a visual carbuncle. If you've been considering handing over your presents in taped up carrier bags to hide your wrapping deficiencies then hopefully these 5 tips will help give you the means and confidence to join the wrapping elite and produce sensational packages:
1 - Buy Decent Wrapping Paper
Be thrifty by all means but thin and listless wrapping paper will make the wrapping process all the more awkward. A more heavy duty wrapping paper is less likely to crease, wrinkle or split when being used to wrap awkward shapes. Not only is a decent wrapping paper likely to sport a more attractive design or finish, but the extra thickness will also provide a more professional result - regardless of your wrapping dexterity.
2 - Equip Yourself
In addition to wrapping paper and that which you intend to wrap, you will also need a few other essentials. Although standard Sellotape is sufficient, for a truly great gift with minimum fuss and mess you're best off using a specialised gift wrapping tape dispenser which will dispatch with common problems such as trying to find the end of the tape on the roll and tape teeth tearing by furnishing the user with ready cut strips. These tape strips are also pretty much invisible on gift wrap.
3 - Less Is More in Some Cases
Make sure to measure out your wrapping paper before cutting it- not only to guarantee that the piece is long enough but also to check that it isn't too long - using an excessive amount of paper often has scruffy and bulbous repercussions. Similarly, don't get carried away with the sticky tape or your recipient will be struggling for hours to remove the laminate covering.
4 - Hide Messy Areas with Bows and Ribbons
If you do happen to tear, scuff, crease or mark your paper then a self-adhesive bow is your best friend. These shiny little adornments both hide problems and add an extra special touch to your gifts. Even if your parcel has been perfectly wrapped, a metallic ribbon and bow can give it that extra wow factor - so whatever your level of gift wrapping proficiency, these little touches are a worthwhile investment.
5 - If All Else Fails, Use a Gift Bag
If in spite of these titbits of advice you're struggling to wrap a present in a manner worthy of its contents then a gift bag is always an option. With decorated bags of all sizes widely available, they may be something of a cheat, but they're sure to look good and are a very quick and easy option.
Happy wrapping and have an exceptionally Merry Christmas!
