Wrapping Ideas for Tricky Presents

Use a disposable tablecloth to wrap a large gift.

Generally speaking, the easiest way to wrap an awkwardly shaped gift is to place it in a box before wrapping. If a box cannot be found that fits your gift or if your problem is not the shape of the gift but rather the size of it, you do have other options. The trick is to get creative with your choice of wrapping material.

Cellophane

Cellophane is a transparent material that is very thin and flexible. To wrap a gift with this material, cut a piece large enough to envelope your gift and place it flat on a table. Then, place your gift in the middle and pull all sides of the cellophane upward, so they meet above the gift. Finally, tie the edges together with a piece of ribbon. If you don't want your wrapping paper to be transparent, use several sheets of colored cellophane. Alternatively, you can place your gift in a basket and wrap the basket with cellophane.

Tablecloths

Disposable tablecloths can be purchased from many dollar stores. They are inexpensive and come in a variety of designs, materials and textures, so you are sure to find one that is appropriate for your purposes. Tablecloths are useful for wrapping large items that would be difficult and expensive to wrap with actual wrapping paper.

Garbage Bags

Garbage bags can double as large gift bags. They are one of the simplest wrapping options and are strong enough to carry reasonably heavy objects. Look for decorative garbage bags, found at many party supply stores. Alternatively, have the kids decorate a white garbage bag or decorate a black garbage bag yourself with stickers. Then place your gift in the bag, gather the bag just above the top of the gift, cut off the remaining top of the bag and tie it closed with long pieces of curly ribbon.

Newspaper

Newspaper is an affordable and convenient option for wrapping large gifts that would require a lot of wrapping paper or for gifts that require several layers of wrapping paper. Use the gift recipient's favorite section of the newspaper for a personalized touch, or use the puzzles or comics section to add visual appeal. You can then proceed to wrap the gift as if you were using standard wrapping paper.

References

• Ideal Home Magazine: Gift Wrapping Ideas