HDYDI: Wrap a Present Like a Pro

One of the coolest perks of growing up in a family of jewelers?

Learning how to wrap a package like a pro.

A few <ahem> decades ago, my grandparents owned a small jewelry store in Pecos, Texas. My uncle now has his own in El Paso. My grandmother taught me how to wrap a present, beautifully. I’ve never forgotten that lesson. I can still see her standing at the wrapping table, folding the paper just so and doing it so quickly it was over before it started.

There are, no doubt, a lot of “how do you do it” videos on YouTube. I’ll add this photo step-by-step to the queue.

For me, wrapping the present is as much a part of the gift as the gift itself. I love doing it. You might be a sack and stuff kinda gal and that is totally cool. But, I promise wrapping a package like a pro isn’t as hard as you think.

Enjoy and Merry (early) Christmas!

The Supplies
Wrapping paper, scissors, paper cutter (like this one) & double stick tape

Step One: Measure your package
I lay my package at the end of the paper and roll it, side-by-side to measure the paper needed for all four sides. Before cutting, I add about 1-2″ of extra paper. For the ends, the paper should measure just over halfway to ensure you have enough.

Step Two: Cut your paper
I’m a huge fan of Container Store or Hallmark paper because of the grid system on the back. I know, not necessary, but it sure makes cutting easier. I use this Scotch cutter (I bought it in the after-Christmas sale bin at Target for $1!) because I think it’s smoother, and easier, than scissors. But again, not 100% needed.

Step Three: Center package and secure paper
I prefer for the crease of my paper to be on the end, rather than the middle. It’s less conspicuous. Overlap the paper just a smidge (total technical term) and secure with tape. Here, I used clear tape but only because I had some on hand! You can use any tape because it will be hidden in the final present.

Step Four: Pull remaining paper over top, crease, fold, then tape
Take the remaining paper and pull it over the package and crease where it meets the edge of the package. To get a clean line, I fold it just past the crease, add double stick tape and then pull pack over to secure.

Step Five: Fold down end, crease the sides and fold in
Fold the top piece of the paper down, creasing both corners and add a piece of double stick tape on the underside to secure, if preferred. Then crease and fold in the sides. 

Step Six: Fold the bottom flap a smidge, pull up and secure
Because the bottom fold is usually a little wonky, fold to give it a clean line, add double stick tape, pull up and secure. Repeat on the other end.

DONE!