A Step-by-Step Guide to Wrapping the Perfect Present, Straight From a Professional

Gathering the right supplies is key. The gift-wrapping paper should be thick enough to avoid ripping during wrapping, but not too think that you can’t get nice, crisp seams. I always use Scotch GiftWrap Tape because it blends seamlessly into the paper and sharp scissors to ensure my lines are clean and smooth.

One of the most common mistakes I see is that people are using too much paper, so they end up with a bulky wrap. Use the “four finger rule” — you should have about four fingers worth of extra paper on either side of your box, which leaves just enough gift wrap for a clean wrap.

From here, there are two options for folding the paper. For a basic wrap, you can fold the paper up and tape to the center of the package to hold in place, as shown here. For more advanced wrapping, I suggest pulling the paper all the way across the bottom of the gift to the opposite edge to avoid a seam. Either way, tape the paper to the box to avoid the gift moving around when you wrap.

Spin the gift around and repeat on the other side.

To adhere the sides of the gift, fold down the top of the package first, creating two side flaps.

Gently fold in the right and left flaps. Fold the bottom flap last and secure with tape.

For a finishing touch, run your fingers or a ruler along the edges to create crisp lines. Adhere your embellishments, and you’re good to go!