Creative Gift Wrapping: Practically Perfect Presents

Article archived: December, 2009

When giving gifts for the winter holidays, presentation counts! Add a touch of personality to your packages, and make gift-giving even more fun.

Follow our suggestions, and wrap gifts artfully and creatively — with less hassle.

When selecting gift wrap, think about the shapes and sizes of the items you're wrapping. If an item is awkwardly shaped, a gift bag is probably your best bet — but items in boxes look better wrapped in roll paper. Make sure you buy enough gift wrap for each gift! Tip: Roll wrap labels will usually indicate the dimensions of the paper — let that be your guide.
Get personal! If your gift recipient is a newshound, wrap his gift in the New York Times. Or, if your recipient loves comic books, stuff her gift bag with pages from an old issue of Spiderman. Sports fans will love roll wrap or gift bags with sports prints or team logos. And gardening buffs will love floral- or fern-patterned wrapping paper.
Finally, ribbons and decorations make a gift complete. Purchase bows, curl cascades, or trim for each gift. Giant Eagle^® carries a treasure trove of gift wrap, decorative gift bags, ribbons, greeting cards — and more.
If you’re giving a lot of gifts this year, consider purchasing a gift-wrapping storage container. Use it to make a gift-wrapping kit so all of your supplies are at the ready. This step will save you time and frustration as the holiday season unfolds.

Gather all of the materials you’ll need for gift-wrapping ahead of time, including transparent cellophane tape. For a really professional look, try double-stick tape. It won’t show, and your wrapping will look extra-polished!
For easier wrapping, choose a clean, flat work area, such as your kitchen table.
Before wrapping each gift, remove its price tag. If available, include a gift receipt with each item — allowing your recipient stress-free returns or exchanges for gifts that aren't a good fit.

Before placing clothing in a shirt box, line the box with tissue paper that matches your wrapping paper. For any gift, line a box with shredded or tissue paper to provide extra cushioning.
To build anticipation and surprise, try wrapping a small package in a really big box. For example, instead of just popping a pair of earrings or an engagement ring into a jewelry box, place the jewelry box in a shoebox — and then wrap the shoebox.
Add variety and dimension to your packages by layering multiple colors of wrapping paper. Mix and match colors, patterns, and designs to make your own customized, creative look.
Dress up solid-colored gift bags with printed tissue. If you’re an artist, decorate gift bags with markers or felt-tipped pens.

Happy holidays from Giant Eagle® Entertain!