The art of Gift-wrapping

Gift-wrapping has become an art form in recent years. Art shops sell custom printed-paper, exquisitely printed bags, ribbons and bows of every possible color and form. It is now also possible to choose from a wide range of different trinkets to add to the wrapping of a gift.

A beautifully wrapped gift always attracts much attention and discussion. You too can draw attention to your wrapping by following a few easy steps.

Easy gift-wrapping involves using pre-prepared wrapping. Wrap the gift in tissue paper or other paper and pop it into a printed-paper bag that is big enough for the gift. Attach a card to the handle. Another option is to place the gift inside a box that has been painted or covered with pretty paper. Tie a ribbon around the box to round off the wrapping.

Wrapping the gift yourself is more difficult for some of us. This need not be the case if you follow a few simple steps:

1. Firstly, you need to purchase wrapping paper that is appropriate for the occasion. Is the gift for a child's birthday? Your grandmother's birthday? Does the recipient have a favorite color? There are wrapping papers available to suit any gift recipient. Do not use Christmas paper for a birthday gift! Make sure that you have enough paper.
2. Before you start to wrap the gift cut a few strips of clear sticky tape and stick them on a surface nearby.
3. Now place the gift on the paper and draw the paper from two opposite sides together and stick them together with the clear sticky tape.
4. Fold the paper neatly at the two remaining ends, fold towards the gift and stick with the clear sticky tape.
5. Choose coordinating ribbon. Cut a length of ribbon long enough to go around the gift and stick it with a strip of sticky tape. You can also cut a second length of ribbon and wrap it in the opposite direction around the gift.
6. Now stick a ribbon rose or a bow on the gift. You can buy ribbon roses and bows at most stationary shops or supermarkets or make them yourself. If you make your own ribbon rose or bow make sure that you purchase enough ribbon.
7. To round off the wrapping add an interesting trinket to the ribbon rose or bow such as a shiny bell, heart or beads. For Christmas gifts a bit of tinsel with a sprig of holly is a nice touch. You will find many different trinkets in your local store to choose from.

More wrapping paper suggestions:

Use comics or newspaper to wrap your present.
Stamp or paint designs onto plain white or brown Kraft paper.
Use a few layers of colored cellophane paper to wrap the gift.
Wrap a layer of transparent cellophane paper over the printed-paper. This will give your package a more sophisticated appearance.