But while we want to create that ‘store-bought’ look for our gifts, our best attempts often end up looking like a sticky tape-induced mess! Luckily, there are ways to perfect your gift-wrapping skill that will make the task easier and stress-free. So if you have a ton of gifts to wrap this season and want to impress this season, be sure not to make any of these common gift wrapping mistakes! If you really want to make an impression, learn how to tie a bow ribbon for the perfect gift.
1. Not wrapping on a correct surface or space
A common mistake is using unsuitable surfaces, or cluttered areas during gift-wrapping. Whether you’re super organized or leave it to the last minute, always designate a suitable space to wrap your gifts. It’s far easier to wrap neatly on a flat surface such as a table/desk, rather than on a bed or the carpet. Plus, a clear space also allows for more precise or crisp folds, without any clutter getting in the way.
2. Not having any of your supplies at hand
3. Buying low quality wrapping paper
You might be saving money on cheap wrapping paper, but these are often thin and flimsy, causing tears or crinkles during gift-wrapping. This can often spoil the overall look of the gift, and element of surprise. Similarly, heavy, luxury wrapping papers could be too stiff to fold neatly. Instead, opt for a mid-range paper that is easy to fold and crease, yet won’t rip to shreds in the process.
4. Using the wrong (or dull) scissors
5. You don’t measure up the wrapping paper
A common mistake we make is cutting the wrapping paper from the roll before measuring up. And it’s always a headache to discover that it comes up way too short to cover the entire gift, forcing us to start over. The best way to measure is by placing the gift in the middle of the wrapping paper, making sure the paper goes all the way up both sides when you fold it. A general rule is to unroll enough that the paper is about twice the length of the gift box. Any excess paper should be trimmed off, or else you’re left with unappealing, bulges of folded paper at the ends.
6. Taping paper to the gift box
This might seem like a logical way to secure it, but taping wrapping paper to the original box is a no-no. Not only could it tear away some of the packaging, but makes the process of unwrapping stressful. Ideally, the paper should fall away from the gift, and not get stuck to it. Ensure your tape sits on top of the wrapping paper, and not touching the gift underneath. In most cases, the box is part of the gift to keep, so you don’t want to ruin the aesthetic.
7. You wrap gifts without name tags
If you want to create the perfect, festive backdrop, be sure not to make these Christmas decorating mistakes, or these Christmas tree mistakes this holiday.
