How to Wrap a Present?

Wrapping a present neatly is easy once you cut the right amount of paper and fold the ends cleanly. This works best for a box-shaped gift.

What you need:

• Wrapping paper
• Scissors
• Tape
• Ribbon or a bow (optional)

Step-by-step:

1. Measure the paper. Place the box upside down (so the seam ends up on the bottom) on the paper. Roll the paper around the box to check it covers all the way around with a small overlap, and that the ends have enough to fold over — roughly two-thirds of the box's height on each end. Cut the paper.
2. Wrap the paper around the box. Bring one edge of the paper over the box, then the other edge over it so they overlap on the bottom. Fold the top edge under about half an inch for a clean straight line, then tape it down.
3. Fold the first end. Push the paper at one end inward. You'll get a top flap and a bottom flap with two triangular side flaps. Fold the two side flaps in so they crease into neat triangles.
4. Fold and tape the end. Fold the top flap down and the bottom flap up (crease it under for a clean edge), then tape it in place. Repeat on the other end.
5. Add a finishing touch. Wrap ribbon around the box, tie a bow, or stick on a pre-made bow and a gift tag.

Tips:

• Crisp folds make all the difference — run your finger firmly along each crease.
• For awkward shapes, use a gift bag with tissue paper instead.
• Wrap on a hard, flat surface for the neatest results.