Beautiful wrapping is half the impression a gift makes. Even a modest item, neatly wrapped and decorated with a sprig of eucalyptus or dried flowers, looks special. Here is how to wrap a gift yourself, which materials to choose, how to decorate a gift with fresh and dried flowers and how to make your wrapping eco-friendly. Ideas for other people and occasions are in our guide what to give: gift ideas.
A bottle — roll it in paper like a cylinder, gather the top into a “bouquet” and tie with ribbon, or use a fabric pouch.
Clothes and textiles — fold neatly, layer with tissue paper and place in a box so nothing creases.
Round or soft items — use a kraft bag or fabric wrapping in the furoshiki style.
Several small items — put them in a box with filler so the gift looks like one set.
Wrapping without wrapping paper
No wrapping paper at hand? Use newspaper or sheet music with thin ribbon, a nice scarf or shawl (it becomes a second gift), a paper bag with a stamp or drawing, or a city map. Children's drawings on plain paper make the most touching wrap for a gift to grandma or dad.
Decorating a gift with flowers
Dried flowers and greenery — eucalyptus, lavender, cotton, bunny tails and dried orange slices last well and travel safely.
Fresh flowers — a single rose or an orchid sprig in a water tube tucked under the ribbon will last all day.
A mini bouquet instead of a bow — striking for a birthday or wedding.
This method suits shoe boxes and gift boxes: the recipient simply lifts the lid without tearing paper, and the box can be reused.
Wrap the base separately: cut paper with 3–4 cm to spare, fold the edges inside the box and fix with double-sided tape.
Wrap the lid the same way, folding the paper inside.
Tie the closed box with ribbon in a cross — the bow keeps the lid on while carrying.
Use different but matching papers for base and lid, such as plain kraft and a small print.
How to tie a neat bow
Wrap the ribbon around the box in a cross and bring the ends together on top.
Tie a simple knot, pulling the ribbon tight against the box.
Make a loop with one end, wrap the other end around it and pull a second loop through — like tying shoelaces.
Even out the loops and trim the ends at an angle or in a dovetail by folding the ribbon in half and cutting diagonally.
For a full multi-loop bow, fold the ribbon concertina-style and cinch the middle with thin wire or thread. Satin holds its shape best, while jute twine suits kraft paper and dried flowers.
A card for your gift
The finishing touch is a few handwritten words. Write on a tag tied with twine, tuck a small card under the bow or make one yourself — see DIY greeting card ideas. For wording, see what to write on a flower card.
FAQ
How can I wrap a gift without a box?
In fabric using the furoshiki technique, in a paper bag or in sturdy kraft paper with neat creases.
How do I attach a fresh flower to a gift?
Put the flower in a small water tube and secure it under the ribbon.
How much paper do I need?
Enough to go round the box with 3–5 cm to spare and cover the ends.
How to gift-wrap a bottle?
Roll it in paper like a cylinder, gather the top and tie with ribbon, or use a fabric pouch.
Author: Maria Svitlovir
Graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Biology and Medicine (2001). BSc in Biology, MSc in Horticulture. Writes about plants, works at a garden centre selecting and repotting plants, and contributes to plant reference guides.
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