We’ve all been there: You’ve found the perfect gift—perhaps for a Secret Santa exchange—but it’s round, and now you’re wondering how on earth to wrap it.
Round gifts can be tricky to package neatly with traditional wrapping paper, but with a few creative techniques, you can make your round gift look festive and well-wrapped. Whether it’s a ball, a jar of treats, or even a circular tin, we’ve got you covered with some easy tips for how to wrap odd shaped gifts.
Let’s walk through some clever ways to wrap your round presents, ensuring they look as good on the outside as they do inside!
Method 1: The Classic Wrapping Paper Technique
The most common approach to wrapping a round gift is to use traditional wrapping paper, but with a few adjustments to make it work for the shape.
What You’ll Need:
- Wrapping paper
- Tape
- Scissors
- Ribbon (optional)
Instructions:
- Cut a Large Piece of Wrapping Paper: Begin by cutting a large enough piece of wrapping paper to fully cover the circumference of your gift. Make sure there’s enough paper to wrap over the top and bottom as well.
- Place the Gift in the Center: Place your round gift in the center of the wrapping paper.
- Gather the Paper: Bring the sides of the wrapping paper up around the gift. Gather the excess paper at the top and bottom of the gift.
- Twist and Secure: Twist the gathered paper at both the top and bottom of the gift to create a neat bundle. Use tape to secure the twisted sections.
- Add a Ribbon: To cover the twisted parts of the wrapping paper, tie a festive ribbon around the top and bottom. This adds a nice decorative touch and hides any wrinkles in the paper.
Method 2: The Tissue Paper and Cellophane Wrap
If you’re looking for a softer, more elegant approach to wrapping a round gift, using tissue paper and cellophane can create a beautiful and polished presentation.
What You’ll Need:
- Tissue paper (in a festive color or pattern)
- Clear cellophane
- Ribbon
- Tape or a gift tag
Instructions:
- Layer the Tissue Paper: Start by layering two or three sheets of tissue paper. Place your round gift in the center of the layered tissue paper.
- Wrap the Gift: Pull the tissue paper up and around the gift, gathering it at the top. Be gentle to avoid tearing the tissue paper.
- Add Cellophane: Place the wrapped gift in the center of a large sheet of clear cellophane and repeat the gathering process. The cellophane adds structure and shine.
- Tie with a Ribbon: Gather the excess cellophane at the top of the gift and tie it off with a ribbon for a decorative finish. You can attach a gift tag here for a personal touch.
Method 3: The “Gift Bag” Solution
When time is tight or you want a foolproof way to wrap a round gift, using a gift bag is the easiest solution. This method works particularly well for larger round items or gifts with odd shapes.
What You’ll Need:
- A gift bag
- Tissue paper
- Ribbon (optional)
Instructions:
- Choose the Right-Sized Bag: Select a gift bag that fits your round gift comfortably. Make sure there’s enough space for the gift to be fully enclosed.
- Add Tissue Paper: Place a few sheets of crumpled tissue paper at the bottom of the bag to cushion the gift.
- Place the Gift Inside: Gently place the round gift into the bag on top of the tissue paper.
- Top with Tissue Paper: To finish, place additional tissue paper on top of the gift, fanning it out so it looks decorative and full. You can tie a ribbon around the handles of the gift bag for an extra festive touch.
Method 4: The “Fabric Wrap” Technique
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly and stylish way to wrap a round gift, using fabric or a scarf can create a reusable and eye-catching presentation. This method, inspired by Japanese furoshiki wrapping, is a sustainable and creative way to give your gift.
What You’ll Need:
- A square piece of fabric or scarf
- Ribbon or twine
Instructions:
- Center the Gift: Place the round gift in the center of your fabric, ensuring that the fabric is large enough to cover the entire gift.
- Wrap and Tie: Pull up two opposite corners of the fabric and tie them together over the top of the gift. Then, pull up the other two corners and tie them over the first knot.
- Add Finishing Touches: You can tie the knots into a bow or add a decorative ribbon or twine to secure everything in place. The result is a beautiful, reusable wrapping solution that’s sure to impress.
Method 5: The “Box It Up” Method
Sometimes the easiest way to wrap a round gift is to place it inside a box before wrapping. This method ensures a neat and tidy presentation without any tricky folds.
What You’ll Need:
- A box that fits your round gift
- Wrapping paper
- Ribbon
Instructions:
- Find the Right Box: Choose a box that comfortably fits your round gift. Make sure there’s a little room for cushioning.
- Wrap the Box: Once your gift is inside the box, simply wrap the box as you would a regular rectangular gift. Add a ribbon for a festive touch.
- Personalize It: Decorate the box with a fun gift tag or Secret Santa message to make it extra special.
How to Wrap Common Round Gifts
Some of the most commonly gifted round objects can present their own unique wrapping challenges. Here are a few popular round gifts and creative ways to wrap them beautifully:
1. How to Wrap Wine Bottles
- Wrapping Tip: Use the tissue paper and cellophane method. First, wrap the bottle in tissue paper, leaving enough at the top to twist into a decorative fan. Then, place the wrapped bottle inside a sheet of cellophane, gather the excess at the neck, and secure it with a festive ribbon. For an elegant touch, add a wine charm or a small decoration to the bow.
2. How to Wrap Candles (in glass jars)
- Wrapping Tip: The fabric wrap technique works wonderfully for candles. Place the candle in the center of a large square of fabric (like a scarf or handkerchief). Pull the fabric corners up and tie them at the top with a ribbon or twine. This technique not only wraps the candle but also creates a reusable gift.
3. How to Wrap Basketball or Soccer Ball
- Wrapping Tip: Use the roll-and-wrap method by rolling the ball in a large sheet of wrapping paper and twisting the ends to resemble a candy wrapper. You can also place the ball in a large gift bag filled with tissue paper for a quick and easy solution.
4. How to Wrap Round Tins of Cookies
- Wrapping Tip: For tins, the classic wrapping paper method works best. Measure enough wrapping paper to cover the tin, fold the sides neatly, and secure with tape. For an added touch, tie a wide ribbon around the tin and attach a personalized gift tag.
Put Your Wrapping Skills To Use with a Secret Santa Exchange!
Now that you’ve learned how to wrap round gifts, it’s time to put those skills to use in a fun holiday gift exchange! If you’re planning a Secret Santa exchange this year, wrapping your gift in a creative way will make the surprise even more exciting for your recipient.
And if you’re looking for the easiest way to organize your Secret Santa event, our Secret Santa platform is here to help. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a virtual exchange with friends, or a workplace event, our gift list streamlines the entire process from start to finish.
Here’s how our gift list makes your Secret Santa exchange stress-free:
- Digital Name Drawing: No more slips of paper! Our platform automatically assigns Secret Santas to participants, saving you time and hassle.
- Wishlist Creation: Participants can create Gift Lists so that their Secret Santa knows exactly what they’d love to receive. You can even add round gifts to your wishlist!
- Admin Dashboard: As the organizer, you’ll have access to an easy-to-use dashboard to manage invitations, track participants, and keep everything running smoothly.
So, while you’re busy wrapping your round gifts and adding creative touches, let us handle the logistics of your Secret Santa event. Whether you’re near or far, our gift list brings the holiday magic to everyone.
Wrap It Up and Get Ready for Fun!
Wrapping round gifts doesn’t have to be a struggle, and with these methods, you’ll have beautiful, creative packages ready to impress. From traditional wrapping paper to eco-friendly fabric wraps, there’s a technique for every style and occasion.
And if you’re ready to host your own Secret Santa exchange, our Secret Santa gift list platform is the perfect tool to make it easy, fun, and organized. Sign up today and bring holiday cheer to your family, friends, or coworkers—one perfectly wrapped gift at a time!
