How to Wrap Christmas Gifts
There’s nothing quite like seeing a Christmas tree piled with beautifully wrapped presents. But when you’re juggling kids, school events, end-of-year chaos and a to-do list a mile long, wrapping gifts can feel like just another task.
The good news? It doesn’t have to be stressful. With a few easy tricks (and some clever shortcuts), you can wrap Christmas gifts beautifully, quickly and with less waste. Here’s how to make it simple this year.
1. Choose the Right Wrapping Paper
Thicker paper is easier to fold, doesn’t rip as you wrap, and always looks neat. Kraft paper is an absolute winner - it’s sturdy, classic and suits every ribbon under the sun.
Bonus: Kids can decorate kraft paper with crayons, stamps or drawings for a sweet, personal touch.
2. Try Reusable Fabric Gift Bags
If you’re wrapping for adults or teens, reusable fabric bags are a lifesaver.
They look gorgeous, take seconds to use, and can be reused year after year.
They’re perfect for:
Teachers
Teenagers
Grandparents
Office Kris Kringle
Anyone who loves low-waste gifting
Plus, no tape, no scissors, no wrestling with paper. Just pop the gift inside, pull the drawstring and done.
3. Reusable Christmas Boxes
A sturdy Christmas box is another great option - especially for oddly shaped gifts or when you want that polished, organised look.
These are brilliant because they can be reused for:
Storing decorations
Keeping kids’ keepsakes
Next year’s gifting
Christmas Eve boxes
They also stack beautifully under the tree, instantly making your setup feel more festive and tidy.
4. Use a Flat Surface
If you’re wrapping with paper, avoid the floor and work at a table. You’ll get crisp folds and save your back from bending all night.
5. Measure Before You Cut
Lay your gift on the paper and check that you have enough to cover all sides with a small overlap. A quick measure saves you from starting over.
6. Fold the Edges for a Clean Finish
Before you tape, fold the cut edge of the wrapping paper over by 1cm. This tiny step makes all the difference to achieving that clean, professional look.
7. Keep Tape Minimal
Two or three pieces of tape are usually enough. If you’re feeling extra fancy, use double-sided tape for a seamless finish.
8. Tidy Ends Every Time
For boxed items, fold the ends neatly by:
Pushing the sides in to form two triangles
Folding the top triangle down
Folding the bottom triangle up
Taping securely
Trim any bulky paper first so the folds sit neatly.
9. Add Ribbon and Tags
A simple ribbon instantly makes any gift look special. Satin ribbon, twine or a sprig of rosemary all add charm without costing much.
Finish with a handwritten tag. If the kids are giving the gift, let them write their names - messy handwriting included. It’s part of the magic.
10. Box the Impossible
For items that are awkward to wrap - toys, mugs, clothing, bottles - pop them in a gift box or fabric bag first. It saves time, looks neater and keeps fragile items protected.
11. Set Up a Wrapping Station
Keep everything together:
Paper
Tape
Scissors
Tags
Ribbon
Pens
Being organised reduces the time and frustration, especially when you’re wrapping for a whole family.
12. Wrap in Batches
Break wrapping into small sessions. One night for teachers, the next night for kids, another for extended family. You’ll stay saner and more organised.
13. Don’t Aim for Perfection
Kids tear into their gifts in seconds. The goal isn’t perfect corners - it’s making Christmas feel magical.
Final Thoughts
Whether you use beautiful wrapping paper, a reusable fabric bag or a Christmas box you can bring out year after year, the aim is to make the season easier, fun and thoughtful.
Put on a Christmas movie, make a cuppa, and enjoy the process - this little ritual is part of the festive joy.
Team PF x