Wrapping guide

A neat parcel needs three things: the right amount of paper, sharp folds and a bow with even loops. Here’s how we do it.

Measuring wrapping paper around a kraft box — Measure by rolling the box across the paper.

What you need

A box — a lidded box makes everything easier than wrapping the object itself. Try a kraft two-piece box.
Wrapping paper: coated paper folds crisply; kraft paper is forgiving and takes stamps and pens well.
Satin ribbon or jute twine, sharp scissors and a small roll of clear tape.
A tag and a pen.

1. Measure

Place the box on the back of the paper. Roll it over three times to find the width you need, then add about 3 cm for overlap. For the length, you want the paper to reach just over halfway up each end. Cut in one straight stroke.

2. Fold the edges

Fold the long cut edge under by a finger’s width. It hides any wobble from the scissors and gives you a clean line along the top of the parcel.

3. Wrap and secure

Bring the plain edge over the box first, then the folded edge on top. Use one small piece of tape in the middle. At each end, push the sides in, crease the top flap down and fold the bottom flap up into a neat triangle, then tape.

Tying a cherry satin bow on a gift — Two loops, two tails, one twist underneath.

4. Tie the ribbon

Cut ribbon about four times the length of the box plus 60 cm for the bow. Centre it under the box, bring both ends up, cross them and turn the box to take them around the other way. Tie a simple knot on top, then a bow: make one loop, wrap the other end around it and pull the second loop through. Pull both loops at the same time to make them even.

Double-faced satin ribbon looks the same on both sides, so twists won’t show the back.

5. Tag and finish

Thread a tag onto one tail before you trim. Cut the tails on a slant or into a small “V” to keep them neat.

Awkward shapes

Bottles, soft toys and odd shapes are easier in a gift bag. Line the bag with two or three sheets of tissue, place the gift inside, then pull the tissue up into loose peaks. Tie a tag to one handle.

Setting a party table

Start with a paper table cover, then add a runner down the middle.
Stack dinner plates with a dessert plate on top and a folded napkin tucked underneath.
Keep to two or three colours — cherry, blush and ivory work together without effort.
Use scalloped place cards for names; write them before the guests arrive.

Balloons and garlands

Our balloons are air-filled, so they’re best hung, taped to a wall or built into a garland. Inflate with a pump, vary the sizes and cluster them in odd numbers. Always read the balloon safety guidance first: balloons are a choking hazard for children under 8 and adult supervision is required.