Wrap It Up: Our Complete Guide to Holiday Gift Wrap

Learn how to put all the finishing touches on your presents—and make them extra special.

As many will say, the holidays aren't all about gifts. But, if we're really being honest, most of us spend a lot of time on gift-giving—from the planning to the purchasing to the packaging—so we want to do it the best we can. Once you've chosen the best gifts for everyone on your list, the finishing touches can take an already thoughtful present to the next level. So, we've compiled our top tips and advice to help make your holiday gifts feel extra special. Ahead, gain expert-level wrapping skills, learn how to make a picture-perfect bow, and then steal some ideas for clever gift-exchange games.

Learn How to Gift-Wrap Like a Pro

We've all been awed by those department store gift-wrappers who can wrap presents in the blink of an eye and make them look like they came straight from Santa's workshop. Then, you may look back at the presents you've wrapped yourself and wondered what's causing all those wrinkles in the paper, bunching around the corners, and just an overall lack of crispness. Well, it's probably this: You're not properly measuring your wrapping paper. Cutting the appropriate amount of paper for the package you're working with is the key to gift-wrapping success. Then, carefully creasing the edges as you go will help you achieve that professional-looking finish. Not only will these simple tricks make your presents look nicer, but once you get the hang of them, they'll help you speed up the gift-wrapping process, too.

Add Those Finishing Touches

Once you've perfected your gift-wrapping skills, it's time to add the finishing touches. This is where you can really get as creative as you want (or, you know, keep things more classic and simple). For a timeless style that never fails, go for a simple bow that's wrapped around both the length and width of the box and tied on top. Once again, measuring is the secret to success here (and will help you avoid the headache of wasting ribbon that you cut too short). Before you cut your ribbon, wrap it around the length of the box, cross it at the underside of the package, and bring it back up on the opposite sides of the package to determine how much ribbon you'll need. Make sure to leave plenty of excess at the ends to tie a bow. If you want to add some personality, you can try out different bow styles with thick wire ribbon or make a curly ribbon bow. No matter which look you prefer, anything you add on top of plain wrapping paper or a simple gift bag will give the gift some wow factor.

Make the Holidays More Meaningful

You've wrapped your present and added some flair, so what's next? While it's not always necessary, a handwritten card will make a present instantly more personal. Not sure what to say? Start with a common holiday greeting, and then fill out the rest of the card with a special memory you shared with the gift recipient that year or a cherished memory from holidays past that will bring a smile to their face. You can also note something about the gift you're giving and let the lucky recipient know why this present made you think of them. Handwritten notes are a surefire way to show someone you care—and it takes away some of the pressure of worrying about whether they like the gift or not. After all, it's truly the thought that counts and a personal note makes any gift extra thoughtful.

For more Real Simple news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on Real Simple.