How to Gift Wrap a Book

To give a book as a gift calls for a little more than just handing it to the recipient, especially if it's a surprise. Whether it's large or small, wrap it up. The category and subject of the book will help determine the kind of wrapping paper to use, as well as the gender of the recipient and whether it's a birthday or other event. A few simple steps can make the packaging look like a professional did it at a store's wrapping department.

Things You'll Need

• Wrapping paper
• Cellophane tape
• Scissors
• Ribbon
• Matching bow
• Gift tag

Instructions

1. Open the sheet or roll out the wrapping paper flat on a work table, right side down. Lay the book on top of the paper to have 4 inches extending above the top of the book. Position the book so there is wrapping paper on both sides, extending out the width of the book. (See image in Introduction). Use scissors to cut off excess wrapping paper.

2. Fold one side of the wrapping paper over the center of the book. Fold over 1 inch of of the other side of the wrapping paper and make a straight crease.

3. Pull the side with the 1-inch fold on top of the first paper folded over the book. Secure with strips of cellophane tape across the fold the length of the book.

4. Turn the book to face you with the open bottom end. Press both sides of the paper and make a right angle fold in at each corner. Fold the point in to meet the bottom of the book. Fold again up against the book to make a neat finish and secure with tape.

5. Turn the book around with the other end facing you and do the same with that side as in Step 4.

6. Flip the book over so the seam side is down. With ribbon, wrap the book around the top and bottom and around the side, twisting in the center and make a knot. Cut off excess ribbon. Attach the matching bow. Write a message on the gift tag and attach it to the wrapping paper.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice with plain paper.

• When choosing wrapping paper, ribbon and bow, seek the help of a clerk in a stationery store.