When you’ve checked your holiday list twice and all your shopping is complete, there’s only one thing left to do – the wrapping! It can be a tedious job. But if you have the right tools and all of your supplies gathered up, you can knock out your gift wrapping quickly and efficiently. I’m sharing the secrets to wrapping gifts like an elf.
The Secrets to Wrapping Gifts Like an Elf
I’m drawn to more neutral shades of color. Our home is mostly whites, browns, blacks, greens and grays with maybe a sprinkling of other colors here and there. I generally carry that trend into the wrapping paper I choose to use too. When you use similar neutral-colored wrapping paper, the aesthetic and presentation of the presents under the tree looks beautiful.
Before I start the wrapping process, it’s easiest to separate the presents based on each person into their own pile. That was, it’s visually easy to see how many presents each person has and decide what type or types of paper you’re going to use for each person. You may prefer to wrap one person’s presents with same paper or you may want to wrap each of their presents with a different kind. Totally up to you and your preference! This is also helpful if Santa is also coming to your house. Then, you’ll want to be sure you use a completely different type of paper for those (and don’t forget to hide that paper too!)
When you get to this point, you’re ready to gather all of your supplies for wrapping!
Choosing Your Wrapping Paper
Like I mentioned earlier, I like to keep my wrapping paper pretty neutral. Sugar Paper and Hearth and Hand at Target both have beautiful selections for holiday gift wrap. It’s good quality, not too expensive and have neutral color palettes.
For a well-wrapped gift, you want to be able to cut a straight line when you’re cutting the wrapping paper. This gadget that was featured on Shark Tank is a game changer. Ironically, it’s call the Elf. It makes cutting wrapping paper quick, easy and much safer than scissors. Another paper cutter that’s convenient for cutting paper is this one. It cuts quickly and helps you cut a clean line.
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Put a Bow On It
A present isn’t complete without adding a pretty bow on top. I like to keep mine simple and use ribbon. Using ribbon with some texture, like leather, burlap or velvet, breaks up the smooth texture of the wrapping paper. You can even use twine for a thinner option.
Mix and match the ribbon and paper. That way, you don’t have to buy too many different varieties of paper and ribbon. They’ll look different, yet aesthetically pleasing when you mix and match the different textures and colors.
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Personalize Your Gift
Once you have your present wrapped and the bow on, it’s time to put the name tag on there, so you don’t get the presents mixed up. I like using a tie-on tag like this one. It looks organic and natural. You can also opt to get more personalized tags with your name or family’s last name on them, like these. It’s really up to you and the look you’re going for with your gifts.
To make your gift extra special for your loved ones, add a fur tree sprig or holly to the ribbon. This adds another dimension of texture and festivity. You can opt to buy them or you can grab them from your backyard, if they’re available. Other options to add to the ribbon are a cinnamon stick, pine cone or ornament. I also love use a monogram ornament and buy the initial of the person I’m gifting to. It’s just another way to add a personalized touch to the gift.
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When In Doubt, Bag It Up
If you’re not into wrapping paper and the cutting, there’s no shame in using bags or pretty boxes for your gifts. You can still personalize a bag with adding some twine, a sprig and a personalized gift tag to a handle of the bag. If you’re using a box, tie a simple ribbon around that.
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Wrapping gifts doesn’t have to be complicated or overwhelming. You just have to be prepared with all of your supplies ahead of time before you wrap. Make a makeshift wrapping station, turn on your favorite holiday movie and start wrapping like an elf. Happy Holidays!
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