How to gift wrap your presents like a pro

So, you have found the perfect present for your loved one – well done! But don’t celebrate too prematurely as your gift still needs to be wrapped and presented nicely. If wrapping gifts isn’t your forte, don’t worry! Here at The Perfume Shop, we’re here to teach you how to wrap a present just like our in-store experts!

Step 1: Get prepared

You’ve heard an artist is only as good as their tools. The same applies here. Before you get started pick your paper. You want something that doesn’t rip too easily – thick quality paper, never tissue paper! Dig out a pair of sharp scissors for precision cutting and make sure your sticky tape is ready to go (pre-cutting into strips optional but totally advised!)

Step 2: Cut it to size

It may seem obvious, but this step is the difference between a pretty present and a clumsily-wrapped, bulky one. Cut your paper to the correct size. Simple.

To do this, get your gift box and place it over your wrapping paper while it is still attached to the roll. Lift the paper over the box, until you can judge how much paper you need to cut to cover all sides once. Now cut the paper from the roll.   

Step 3: Fold lengthways

Taking the longest edge of the paper, pull it over the box holding it taut until it reaches the centre of the box. We like to do the first fold centrally to give ourselves more control over the rest of the wrapping and design of the folds. Tape into place. 

Now bring the opposite edge over your first fold and cover your first tape mark with the next fold. If your paper hangs too far over your box, trim it down before taping. When working with double-sided paper, here is where you can create an eye-catching fold with the paper (a signature style we go for in-store) and you can keep it neat by using double-sided tape to hold the decorative fold in place.

Top tip: Every time you make a fold with the paper, run your fingers along the edges to create a defined crease in the paper – this keeps the present looking pristine as you work.

Step 4: Folding the open edges

Now you’ve got the box covered in your wrapping paper it’s time to tuck in the open edges. To do this, focus on one side at a time. Hold the excess paper that’s hanging over the open edge and softly squeeze it so it creases close to the box. If you can see there is more paper here than needed (e.g., it overhangs by a lot) then cut the paper down.

With the excess paper gone, fold down the top/longest flap, pull in the sides, and pull up the bottom flap. Tape into place. Repeat the steps on the other open edge.

Step 5: Finishing touches

Nearly there! The present is all wrapped up, but the final flourish makes the biggest difference. Add a big eye-catching bow, ribbon and gift tag to take your gift to the next level. Ta-da!

How to tie a ribbon

While it may be tempting to stick a pre-made bow onto your wrapped present, there’s no denying that tieing a ribbon around a present yourself will gift your gift a fancier finishing touch.

Step 1: Cut a length of ribbon around six times the widest width of your gift. Once cut, place your gift face down on the middle of the ribbon.
Step 2: Wrap the ribbon around the gift one way and then wrap it around perpendicular to the original direction. This should create a twist in the middle section of your gift.
Step 3: Pull the ribbon tight so it doesn’t move, and then turn the box over
Step 4: Tie a knot in the centre of the box
Step 5: Create two loops with the extra ribbon (like bunny ears) and cross the left loop over the right loop. Then, bend the left loop around and pull through the hole tightly to create a simple yet elegant bow.

Extra wrapping tips

Give yourself enough time

When you’re in a rush, you’re going to stumble, faff and eventually get annoyed at your lack of present-wrapping skills. So, give yourself ample time to wrap up your gift with a little love instead of leaving it last-minute.  

Thoughtful touches

Want to leave a lasting impression? It’s all about the thoughtful, extra special touches. From personalised ribbon to a special message etched onto the bottle itself – we’ve got plenty of ways to elevate your gift. Check out our bottle engraving service to create a one-of-a-kind gift.

Grab a gift bag

Ok, you tried. And it still looks a little rough around the edges. No problem – a gift bag can hide a multitude of sins! It’s also the perfect choice if you’re struggling with an odd-shaped gift box. When in doubt, grab a gift bag or a gift box. We won’t tell if you don’t.

We do pre-wrapped gifts, too

If you’d rather not be rummaging around in your drawers looking for sticky tape or dashing to the shops for last-minute wrapping paper, you can always opt for one of our marvellous pre-wrapped gifts. These delightful gift sets will arrive at your door gift wrapped to perfection! (And we totally don’t mind you taking all the credit for it, either!)