Best you wrap it up

KAREN WIGHT

No matter what occasion you celebrate, a beautifully wrapped package

is always appreciated. Even if the “oohs” and “ahhhs” only last for a

moment before the bow and paper are destroyed, the initial visual

impact leaves a first and lasting impression.

I love the entire ritual of wrapping packages. I like choosing the

papers, the ribbons and the tags. I like combining ribbons and adding

decorative ornaments. I am a wrapaholic.

This time of year requires a certain amount of wrap-aptitude, and

I’m the gal to provide it. Start with a wrapped package: Don’t cheat

on the folded edges; burnish them with the handle of your scissors.

Use double-sided tape to secure the seams; it makes the paper look

like it was born to cover the box.

Take your ribbon and wrap it length and widthwise around the

package.

Cut a separate 8-inch piece of ribbon, slide it underneath the

ribbon and knot in front of the package. Choose your ribbon or

ribbons and make large loops (like a shoelace). Continue to loop the

ribbon, stacking it, until you have five or six loops on both sides.

Cut the end and twist in the center of the stacked loops. Tie the

loops onto the present with the 8-inch ribbon piece lying under the

knot.

Separate the loops and fluff the bow. If you want to add an extra

touch, tie an ornament in the center.

If your package is large, you will increase the size of the loops

to look proportionate with the present. If you’re going for big

statement, use more than one kind of ribbon. Make a lot of loops. Tie

on a fabulous “extra.”

OK, it’s the thought that counts, and it’s the gift they’ll keep,

but the packaging makes it pop. Wrappy Holidays.

* KAREN WIGHT is a Newport Beach resident. Her column runs

Thursdays.