Beautiful wrapping makes even a small gift feel special. You don't need fancy skills, just a few tricks the boutiques use.
1. Start with good paper
Thicker paper folds crisply, hides what's inside and doesn't tear at the corners. It's the single biggest difference between homemade and boutique wrapping.
2. Measure before you cut
Wrap the paper around the box with about two inches of overlap, and leave a little more than half the box's depth on each end. Too much paper makes bulky ends.
3. Fold the raw edge under
Fold the top edge of the seam over by half an inch before taping. A clean folded edge looks finished.
4. Use double-sided tape
Put the tape under the seams so nothing shows on the outside.
5. Crease every edge
Run your fingernail or a bone folder along each edge of the box. Sharp creases are what make a package look professional.
6. Make neat ends
Push the sides in, crease them, then fold the top flap down and the bottom flap up, folding the raw edge under before you tape.
7. Add natural trim
Jute twine, velvet ribbon or a strip of kraft paper, plus a sprig of greenery, a dried flower or a vintage brooch. Simple trims look the most expensive.
8. Finish with a tag
A handwritten tag tied on with the ribbon is the finishing touch.
Find vintage-inspired wrapping paper and party pieces in Party Like an Alleycat and Gift Wrap.