The tape is a symptom. When tape shows, it means something else went wrong earlier.

More paper than you think

The mistake everyone makes is cutting the paper too close. You need more than looks right. When in doubt, add two inches on each side.

Too much paper can be folded under. Too little paper leaves gaps that need tape to fix.

The first fold is the only one that matters

Lay the gift face-down on the paper. Bring one side over—not to the center, but past it by about an inch. Crease it against the edge of the box. Sharp crease. Use your fingernail.

Now bring the other side over. It should overlap the first side completely. One piece of tape in the center, hidden under the overlap. That’s the only tape that touches the main surface.

The ends

This is where people panic and start grabbing tape.

Push the sides in first. Both of them, meeting in the middle. Then fold the bottom flap up. Sharp crease at the edge of the box. Then the top flap down over it.

One piece of tape to hold that last flap. On the bottom of the package, where nobody looks.

If you’re using kraft paper

Don’t fight the wrinkles. Kraft paper wrinkles. That’s part of it.

The twine goes around twice—once the long way, once the short way, tied where they cross. Not too tight. Leave enough slack to slide a finger under.

If you’re adding something on top—a sprig of cedar, a cinnamon stick, a tag—tuck it under the twine at the knot. Don’t tape it.

The tag

Handwritten. Small. Their name and yours is enough. Maybe “December 2025” if you want them to remember when.

Hole punch in the corner. Thread a short piece of twine through. Tie it to the main twine, not to the package.

There’s probably a faster way to do this. There usually is.