How to Wrap Oddly Shaped Gifts

Wrapping gifts is a delightful way to add an element of surprise and anticipation to any occasion. However, when faced with oddly shaped gifts, it can be challenging to achieve that perfectly wrapped look. Fear not, for with a little creativity and some expert techniques, you can turn those challenging gifts into beautifully wrapped surprises.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best techniques and step-by-step instructions to help you master the art of wrapping weird shaped gifts with finesse and style. From cylindrical objects to asymmetrical treasures, we’ve got you covered.

Gather Your Materials

Before you embark on your wrapping adventure, make sure you have all the necessary supplies at hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Wrapping Paper: Choose a sturdy wrapping paper that is large enough to cover the gift entirely. Consider using patterned or solid-colored paper that suits the occasion or the recipient’s taste.
2. Tape: Opt for clear, double-sided tape or regular tape to secure the wrapping paper in place.
3. Scissors: A sharp pair of scissors is essential for cutting the wrapping paper and making precise folds.
4. Ribbons and Bows: Select ribbons and bows that complement the wrapping paper or the gift’s theme. Satin, grosgrain, or velvet ribbons work well for different types of gifts.
5. Decorative Accents: Optional embellishments such as gift tags, dried flowers, or ornaments can add an extra touch of charm to your wrapped gift.

How to Wrap Odd-Shaped Gifts

Let’s check out the detailed instruction on how to wrap an odd shaped gift:

1. Wrapping a Cylinder-Shaped Gift

Cylinder-shaped gifts, like bottles or tubes, require a unique wrapping technique. Follow these steps to achieve a polished look for this unusual shaped gift type:

• Measure the wrapping paper: Place the gift on the wrapping paper and roll it until the paper covers the entire length of the cylinder with a bit of overlap. Ensure the paper’s width can fully enclose the gift.
• Cut the wrapping paper: Using the scissors, cut the paper along the measured length, ensuring you have enough paper to wrap around the entire gift.
• Wrap and secure: Roll the gift tightly in the wrapping paper, making sure the seam aligns with the back of the cylinder. Secure the paper in place with tape.
• Twist and secure the ends: Twist one end of the wrapping paper and fold it tightly against the cylinder’s base. Secure it with tape. Repeat the same process on the other end, ensuring both ends are tightly sealed.
• Add decorative accents: Tie a ribbon or bow around the middle of the cylinder to conceal the seam. Attach a gift tag or any other decorative accents for an elegant finishing touch.

2. Wrapping an Asymmetrical Gift

Asymmetrical gifts, such as sculptures or irregularly shaped items, require a flexible wrapping technique. Follow these steps to create a tailored wrap for your unique gift:

• Create a Custom Gift Bag: Lay the gift on a piece of wrapping paper large enough to wrap it completely. Fold the paper around the gift, creating a bag-like shape, and secure the sides with tape.
• Adjust the Bag: Gently manipulate the wrapping paper bag to accommodate the gift’s shape, ensuring a snug fit. Adjust the folds as necessary to create clean lines.
• Secure the Top: Fold the top edges of the bag inward, similar to sealing an envelope. Use tape to secure the folded edges, leaving room for decorative elements or tissue paper.
• Personalize with Accents: Add decorative ribbons, bows, or other embellishments to enhance the overall presentation. Consider using contrasting colors or textures to make the gift stand out.

3. Wrapping Awkwardly Shaped Gifts

For gifts that defy traditional wrapping techniques, you can employ creative alternatives to achieve a stunning presentation:

• Disguise with Boxes or Containers: If your oddly shaped gift is too challenging to wrap directly, consider placing it inside a box or a decorative container. Choose a box or container that is slightly larger than the gift to ensure a proper fit.
• Wrap the Box or Container: Once the gift is placed inside the box or container, wrap it as you would a regular gift box. Cut a piece of wrapping paper that can cover the entire box or container. Fold the edges neatly and secure them with tape. You can add a bow or ribbon to enhance the presentation.
• Use Fabric or Cloth: For soft or malleable items like clothing or plush toys, wrapping them with fabric or cloth can be a creative and visually appealing option. Place the gift in the center of the fabric, gather the corners, and tie them together with a ribbon or string. This method adds a unique touch and can be reused by the recipient.
• Unconventional Shapes: For gifts with irregular shapes, such as a bicycle or a guitar, focus on creating an element of surprise. Cover the gift with a large sheet or blanket and tie it securely with ribbons or ropes. This approach allows the recipient to discover the gift’s shape gradually.
• Decorative Accents: To add an extra special touch, consider attaching decorative accents to the wrapped gift. This could include ornaments, dried flowers, or personalized tags. These small details can elevate the presentation and make the gift even more memorable.

Read more: How to Wrap Large Gifts

Tips for Wrapping Irregular Gifts of Any Shape

Tip 1: Custom Gift Bag

If the gift is irregularly shaped but not overly fragile, creating a custom gift bag is an excellent solution. Here’s how to do it:

a. Measure and cut: Select a sturdy wrapping paper or fabric that complements the occasion. Measure and cut a piece large enough to fully enclose the gift.

b. Placement and folding: Place the gift in the center of the paper or fabric. Bring the longer sides together and overlap them to create a tube-like shape. Fold the excess paper at the top and bottom towards the center, leaving enough room for the gift.

c. Secure the edges: Use adhesive tape or glue to seal the sides of the bag securely. Double-check that the gift is snug inside the bag.

d. Finishing touches: Fold the top of the bag down once or twice for a neat finish. You can secure it with a decorative ribbon or attach a personalized gift tag.

Tip 2: Box Within a Box

For oddly shaped gifts with sharp edges or delicate parts, enclosing them in a box will provide added protection. Follow these steps:

a. Find the appropriate boxes: Select two boxes—the outer one should be slightly larger than the gift, and the inner one should fit the gift snugly. Make sure the inner box is sturdy enough to protect the gift.

b. Wrap the outer box: Wrap the larger box with decorative paper of your choice. Ensure the paper covers the entire box, including the top and bottom.

c. Place the gift inside the inner box: Insert the gift into the smaller box. If necessary, add cushioning materials such as tissue paper or bubble wrap to keep the gift secure.

d. Insert the inner box into the outer box: Place the inner box inside the wrapped outer box. Secure the boxes together with tape or ribbons.

e. Finishing touches: Decorate the outer box with ribbons, bows, or any other embellishments that suit the occasion.

Tip 3: Creative Folds

For uniquely shaped items that cannot be easily contained in a bag or box, creative folding techniques are the answer. Here are two folding methods:

a. Cylinder Fold: This technique is ideal for cylindrical objects or round gifts.

• Roll the gift: Start by rolling the gift in wrapping paper, just like rolling a Tootsie Roll candy.
• Fold the ends: Fold down both ends of the wrapping paper like a fan, tucking in any excess paper.
• Secure the ends: Use tape or ribbon to secure the folded ends in place, creating a polished finish.

b. Envelope Fold: Perfect for flat items like books or puzzles.

• Choose the paper: Select a square or rectangular piece of wrapping paper or decorative craft paper.
• Fold like an envelope: Turn the paper sideways and fold it in from both sides, creating an envelope shape. Ensure the fold aligns with the gift’s dimensions.
• Seal the envelope: Use adhesive or tape to seal the sides of the envelope. Add a bow or a personalized gift tag for an extra touch.

Tip 4: Customized Wrapping Techniques

For gifts that defy conventional wrapping methods, you can get creative and customize your approach. Here are a few unique ideas:

a. Fabric Wrap: Instead of traditional paper, consider using a beautiful piece of fabric to wrap an interesting gift like a blanket. Choose a fabric that complements the recipient’s taste or the occasion. Secure the fabric with ribbons or decorative knots for an elegant presentation.

b. Puzzle Wrap: For a fun twist, turn the gift-wrapping experience into a puzzle for the recipient to solve. Wrap each component of the gift separately, using different wrapping paper. Number or label each package and provide instructions for the recipient to put the puzzle together.

c. Gift within a Gift: Conceal the oddly shaped gift within a series of nested boxes. Wrap each box individually, creating a sense of anticipation as the recipient unwraps one box after another, leading to the ultimate surprise.

d. Personalized Wrapping: Add a personal touch to your gift by incorporating elements that reflect the recipient’s interests or hobbies. Use themed wrapping paper, such as sports, music, or travel motifs. Attach small accessories related to their passion, like mini golf balls or guitar picks, to the exterior of the gift.

Tip 5: Finishing Flourishes

No matter the shape of the gift, the finishing touches elevate the presentation. Consider these final flourishes:

a. Ribbon and Bow: A well-tied ribbon or a beautiful bow can add a touch of elegance to any gift. Experiment with different ribbon widths, textures, and colors to create a stunning visual effect. You can also make a bow out of leftover wrapping paper to decorate your gift.

b. Gift Tags: Attach a gift tag to convey a heartfelt message or personalize the gift further. Handwritten notes or customized tags with the recipient’s name make the gift feel extra special.

c. Embellishments: Embellish your wrapping with decorative elements such as dried flowers, sprigs of greenery, or even small ornaments. These additions can enhance the overall aesthetic and create a visually striking presentation.

Final Words

Wrapping oddly shaped gifts may require a bit more creativity and effort, but the results are well worth it.

Remember, the wrapping is an extension of your thoughtfulness and the excitement of receiving a gift. Embrace the opportunity to showcase your creativity and make the gift-giving experience truly memorable. Please also note that you need to gather your materials, choose the appropriate wrapping method based on the gift’s shape, and add personalized touches to enhance the overall presentation.

By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll become a master at wrapping even the most challenging gifts, delighting your loved ones with your creativity and attention to detail. Happy gift wrapping!