How to wrap a present without tape

Tape-free wrapping is not just for people who have run out of Sellotape. Paper held with folds and string recycles cleanly, opens without scissors and looks better in photos.

The rule for all of these: cut less paper than you think. Tape-free methods rely on tight folds, and slack paper is what makes them fall apart.

The Japanese fold (box shapes)

• Cut a square of paper about three times the width of the box, and sit the box diagonally in the middle.
• Fold one corner over the box and crease hard along the top edge.
• Fold the opposite corner over it, so the two overlap across the top.
• Bring the remaining two corners up, tuck one inside the other, and knot them or tie them with string.
• Sharp creases do the holding here - run your thumbnail along every fold.

String and twine

• Wrap as normal but leave the ends loose, then run twine round both directions and knot on top.
• Tuck a sprig of greenery, a luggage tag or a folded note under the knot.
• Butcher's string, garden twine and even shoelaces all work; ribbon slips more than you expect. Shop this card

Fabric wrapping (furoshiki)

• A square scarf, tea towel or offcut wraps a box in two knots and becomes part of the gift.
• Sit the item diagonally, knot two opposite corners across it, then knot the other two over the top.
• For bottles: stand it in the centre, gather the fabric up and tie at the neck.

Paper bands and envelopes

• For flat gifts, fold the paper into an envelope and seal it with a sticker or a wax seal.
• For books and boxes, a wide band of contrast paper slid round the middle holds the wrap and looks deliberate.
• Slot-and-tab closures - a cut slit and a folded tab - hold cardboard boxes with nothing added.

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How to write it so it lands

• Crease every fold with your thumbnail; slack paper is what fails.
• Cut the paper smaller than feels safe - overlap is what makes it bulky.
• Keep string long enough to knot twice, then trim.

Where to shop next

• Gift bag alternatives
• How to wrap awkward shapes
• How to build a hamper
• How to tie a gift bow
• Eco friendly gift wrapping
• How to post a gift safely
• Gift presentation ideas on a budget
• Wrapping and presentation guides
• Money-free gifting guides
• All guides
• Planning the party? Birthday party ideas
• How to make a balloon arch
• Photo booth prop ideas

Frequently asked questions

Can you wrap a present with no tape at all?

Yes. The Japanese diagonal fold, fabric wrapping and folded paper envelopes all hold with creases and knots alone.

What can you use instead of Sellotape?

String, ribbon, paper bands, stickers, washi tape, wax seals or a knot in the paper itself.

Does tape-free wrapping recycle better?

Plain paper with no plastic tape or glitter goes in kerbside recycling in most UK councils. Do the scrunch test - if it stays scrunched, it is recyclable.