How To Gift Wrap

By Catherine E D'arcy

Most good quality websites offer a full gift wrapping service. However for those who want to give it a bash themselves, here's the recommended technique for perfect gift wrapping.

1. Start with a good quality box. Your gift may already be in a box. If not buy one from a good quality stationers.

2. Line it with foam or tissue to hold your gift snugly.

3. Choose colourful paper appropriate for the occasion.

4. Measure the paper by gently wrapping it around the box. Leave 4cm extra to overlap.

5. Cut the paper evenly so you have a clean edge. If the end is ragged fold it over to leave a clean straight edge.

6. Measure the ends by using the end of the box. The paper on the upper surface should fold down to cover the end of the box at both ends.

7. Trim the sides of the paper making sure you have enough to cover the ends.

8. Now wrap the box lengthwise and tape the paper tightly. You should now have a "tube of paper" slightly longer than your box at both ends.

9. Flatten these ends and fold the corners in towards each other to form a point (pointing outwards from the gift).

10. Fold up the two points (one at each end of the parcel) and tape them.

11. Choose a bright ribbon that coordinates with the wrapping paper.

12. Wrap the ribbon round the box, cross it over & back around the box to form a cross on the parcel.

13. Tie the ends into a simple bow (if necessary tape in place).

14. Too complicated? No problem... Let us gift wrap for you!

Catherine D'Arcy is the founder of Corazon Latino, an online retailer specializing in handmade silver jewellery. To see their exclusive range of designs, visit Corazon Latino