These 5 Gift Wrapping Tips Will Save You Time and Stress

Unless you’re a master at wrapping gifts, this task may require more time and energy than you expect. As a result, this puts you behind on completing your holiday to-do list. The good news is, it’s possible to put decorative touches on presents for loved ones in a hassle-free manner. From wrapping faster than Santa’s top elf to finding the perfect solutions for awkwardly shaped gifts, these expert tips make the season’s cheeriest chore easier.

Present sweet treats beautifully in aluminum foil boxes.

If you’re planning a cookie exchange, take your empty foil or parchment paper boxes and wrap them, taping over the sharp edge, says artist Amanda Evanston (AuntPeaches.com). Then line the inside of the box with wax paper and fill with your baked goods. “They look gorgeous and keep cookies neatly in place — plus, the recipient can put the box right in their cupboard or bread box.”

Outsmart oddly shaped gifts with ‘taffy bags’

Save yourself from having to buy yet another gift bag with this trick from designer Emily Lex (JonesDesignCompany.com): “Cut two big squares of tissue paper, then place the gift in the middle and roll it up — it’s my favorite way to wrap clothes or stuffed animals.” Tie off the ends with two pieces of ribbon to make it look like an old fashioned piece of taffy!

Restore and ‘recycle’ ribbons with a flat iron.

“Using a flat iron on ribbons is a great way to remove creases so they look like new,” says crafter Stephanie Chumbley. Just place the flat iron on the lowest setting and pull the ribbon through at a steady pace. Voilà!

Sidestep overspending with color-coded wrapping.

If your hand (not to mention your wallet!) is hurting at the mere thought of writing out and buying all those gift tags, just assign each friend and family member a specific gift wrap color or pattern, and you won’t have to buy extra labels at all. No need to pick up several rolls of different-colored paper either: You can create the same effect by using the same color bow or ribbon for each giftee.

Corral supplies easily with a convenient caddy.

Keep gift wrap supplies from taking over your craft room by gathering them in an old cardboard wine box. Crafter Inez Stanway (LiveLaughCreate.com) says, “The little compartments are perfect for storing paper rolls, tape, ribbon, and scissors, so you can keep them organized. Plus, since the box is so easy to move, you can tote it along to wrap your gifts wherever is most convenient.”

A version of this article originally appeared in our print magazine, Woman’s World.