How to Wrap a Tube or Cylinder

Choosing which way to gift-wrap a tube and cylinder is less complicated than it sounds. If mailing the wrapped cylinder is not a consideration, a decorative fun finish often known as "firecracker" or "firework" is an option. Below are the fundamentals of gift-wrapping a cylinder using tissue paper to create the firework finish.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cylinder
• Tissue paper
• Tape
• Curling ribbon
• Scissors

1. Place a length of tissue paper (pattern side down) on a flat surface and set the cylinder down close to one edge. Center it so there is an equal significant gap on each side; 6 to 8 inches is best.

2. Pull up the closer side of the tissue and attached firmly to the center of the cylinder using a small piece of tape. This will ensure that when you begin rolling, the cylinder will stay in position.

3. Roll the cylinder forward, wrapping the tissue paper tightly around its length as you proceed and secure the edge with another small piece of tape.

4. Gather the excess tissue paper from both sides of the cylinder with your hands to create two fanned out pieces of tissue at the end. Twisting the paper rather than gathering can tear the tissue and ruin your final look.

5. Tie a small piece of curling ribbon around each gathered end close to the cylinder top and bottom and secure with a regular knot.

6. Use 3 or 4 more lengths of long curling ribbon (at least 12 inches) on each side and attach with a tight double knot before curling.

7. Press the length of each ribbon piece against the flat blade of a pair of scissors and blunt score to curl. Repeat on both sides for the firecracker effect.

Tips & Warnings

• Use several sheets of tissue paper if the paper is very thin or the labeling of the cylinder will show through.