Cutting the right size sheet
Cutting wrapping paper by eye usually leaves a gap on the side or a thick wad of folded paper at the ends. A little geometry gives a neat result and saves paper.
The sheet size
For a box of length L, width W and height H, with the paper wrapped around the long way:
- Sheet length (around the box): 2 × (W + H) + overlap
- Sheet width (covering the ends): L + H + a small margin
The overlap lets the paper join on the bottom of the box; 1 to 2 inches is enough. Each end needs a little more than half the box height of paper so the folded flaps meet in the middle. The calculator adds the overlap to both dimensions for a comfortable margin.
Worked example
A box 12 × 8 × 4 inches, with a 2-inch overlap and a 30-inch by 10-foot roll:
| Result | Value |
|---|---|
| Sheet length (around the box) | 26 in |
| Sheet width (covering the ends) | 18 in |
| Paper area per gift | 3.25 sq ft |
| Gifts per roll | 6 |
| Ribbon, with bow | 76 in |
Getting the most from a roll
The calculator checks both ways of placing each sheet on the roll. Here, cutting 18-inch strips across the full 30-inch width (with the 26-inch side across the roll) gives 6 sheets, while the other orientation gives only 4. Rolls are commonly sold in 30-inch widths, with lengths given in square feet; a 25 sq ft roll of 30-inch paper is 10 feet long.
Ribbon
For a ribbon tied in a cross over the top:
Ribbon = 2 × length + 2 × width + 4 × height + bow
A simple bow takes about 15 to 20 inches; a full, multi-loop bow can take 3 feet or more.
Wrapping tips
- Place the box upside down in the center of the sheet.
- Bring one long edge up and tape it to the box, then fold the other edge under by half an inch for a clean line and tape it over the first.
- At each end, fold the sides in, then the top flap down and the bottom flap up, and tape.
- Use double-sided tape for an invisible finish.
For odd shapes, a gift bag or fabric wrap (furoshiki) is easier. Plain paper without foil, glitter or plastic coating can usually go in the recycling bin.