WHICH WRAPPING PAPER IS BEST?
Want to make your gift look its very best? Wrapping paper does more than conceal your present — it helps build excitement leading up to the big reveal. Whether you’re going for a bold, eye-catching print or prefer something subdued to keep the focus on the gift, you’ll find countless choices for wrapping paper.
To ensure your gifts always stand out, look at this buying guide to find a wrapping paper that suits your style and taste. Our top choice, the American Greetings Christmas Reversible Wrapping Paper, is perfect for the holidays.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU BUY WRAPPING PAPER
Types of wrapping paper
- Classic wrapping paper: Classic wrapping paper is available in different thicknesses, or GSMs, which affects their overall quality. Generally speaking, the thicker it is, the less likely it is to rip. This type of wrapping paper is pretty versatile, though it can take some skill wrapping oddly shaped objects.
- Kraft paper: Kraft paper is significantly thicker than regular wrapping paper, as its chemical production process involves more cellulose retention. It’s common to find kraft paper in plain brown colors without prints or designs, so they’re well-suited for custom designs and lend themselves to paper crafting projects.
- Tissue paper: Tissue paper is ultrathin, so it’s more often used as stuffing or lining in gift bags or boxes. Some individuals use several layers of tissue paper to wrap gifts, whereas others wrap gifts in tissue paper before adding a layer of classic or kraft paper wrap.
- Cellophane: Cellophane is transparent, so concealing your gift isn’t an option. However, it’s ideal for wrapping gift baskets. It can also come in different colors, even iridescent ones, and can feature stamped prints or designs.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN QUALITY WRAPPING PAPER
Patterned vs. plain
If you’re considering plain wrapping paper, it’s a smart investment in versatility. Not only can you dress it up with ribbon or bows for an occasion, but also you don’t need to worry about lining up prints or patterns.
Patterned wrapping paper, on the other hand, is ideal if you’d like to give a fancy, eye-catching gift. They’re also a good choice if you’re not a great wrapper, as the busy pattern takes away from any imperfections with folds or creases.
Reversible
If you’re looking for the best of both worlds, invest in reversible wrapping paper. You’ll either have paper featuring two prints, or a print-solid combo. They tend to have the same colors or themes, so you can use them to wrap a series of coordinating gifts for the same recipient.
Gridlines
For even cuts every time, it’s worth considering wrapping paper with gridlines. These help to minimize waste by letting you line up gifts and pre-measure paper. The gridlines also aid in cutting straight lines, which set you up for gift wrapping success with professional-grade precision.
HOW MUCH YOU CAN EXPECT TO SPEND ON WRAPPING PAPER
You’ll find plenty of wrapping paper for $3-$5 per roll, however, paper and design quality are hit or miss. If you spend $10-$15 per roll, you’ll find attractive, high-quality paper on par with department store wrapping paper. To get the most value, you can buy wrapping paper in bulk, starting at $20 and above.
WRAPPING PAPER FAQ
Q. Should I wrap gifts that I’m going to place into gift bags anyway?
A. It’s entirely up to you, but also depends on the gift. You could loosely wrap gifts in a couple sheets of tissue paper and place them in the bag for an upscale look. On the other hand, wrapping with classic or kraft paper and then placing them into a gift bag, can be a bit redundant.
Q. What kind of tape is best to use with wrapping paper?
A. Using quality tape makes a big difference in how well the paper stays together. Some people choose to use double-sided tape for a seamless appearance, however, you need exceptional precision and planning to pull this off.
WHAT’S THE BEST WRAPPING PAPER TO BUY?
Top wrapping paper
American Greetings Christmas Reversible Wrapping Paper
What you need to know: This festive four-pack comes from a trusted brand.
What you’ll love: These rolls are reversible and are made of thick, high-quality paper. They come with holiday-themed designs featuring snowmen, Christmas trees, snowflakes and more.
What you should consider: Some people said that some rolls were thicker than others.
Top wrapping paper for the money
Creative Paper Co.’s Brown Kraft Paper Jumbo Roll
What you need to know: This large roll of nonwaxed paper is ideal for personalized gifting or for use with other paper crafts.
What you’ll love: It has an industrial-grade quality and thickness. It’s eco-friendly and made in the United States.
What you should consider: It’s better suited for markers and crayons and only select paints.
Worth checking out
Note Card Cafe Bella Kraft All Occasion Wrapping Paper | 18 Pack
What you need to know: It’s got the elegant, high-end look of professional gift wrap. Attractive and unique.
What you’ll love: It’s 100% recyclable and biodegradable. It’s versatile enough for all ages and occasions, and it’s easy to fold and cut.
What you should consider: The colors and patterns might not fit everyone’s tastes.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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