A few months ago we did a gifting project highlighting the amazing gift wrapping talent of our dear friend and fellow maker Dina! This month we'd like to share a bit more about her passion and talent. In upcoming months we'll also be having her post some fabulous gift wrapping inspiration and tips! We recently sat down with Dina and her furry friends to learn more about where and when her love and skill for gift wrapping began. Take a look below!
Dina with her doggies Sophie, Jack and her kitty Zeus!
I. When and how did you discover a love and talent for gift wrapping? Was is it something you had to practice to learn or did it come naturally?
I discovered my love for wrapping gifts when I was in high school. I realized that I must love it if I was willing to wrap every gift that was to be placed under our Christmas tree every year. Well after high school I realized that I might have the talent for it when I no longer wanted to use “sticky bows” as toppers and decided to search for something different from my backyard. I had these huge trees and 2 of them were Pine trees. I would pick up sticks, pinecones and beautiful leaves to adorn my gifts –this is when I knew I had found a great love of mine!
What came naturally to me was problem solving the uniquely shaped gifts, but the actual “art” of wrapping definitely came with practice, practice, & more practice! I had to practice to nail down technique and how to measure efficiently.
2. Your wrapping style is much more than just about picking pretty paper. There is always another amazing dimensional and creative level you add to your presentation. What elements do you think of in order to take your gift wrapping to the next level?
I actually try to keep it simple. I always make choices based on the person I’m giving the gift to. I choose my color or design choices with what I think they will like or what matches their personality. Then I think of a unique or clever way to show my love for wrapping their gift & add a little surprise of some sort.
3. Is there an occasion you enjoy wrapping gifts for the most?
Absolutely, it’s during Christmas! I get to wrap a bunch of gifts at one time and for several days, making choices for so many different people and pets too!
4. What are some the standard tools you use and best types of paper you would recommend?
Standard tools are:
1. Sharp scissors for cutting paper
2. Sharp scissors exclusively for cutting ribbon
3. A bone folder
4. A heavy tape dispenser
I feel the best papers are the heavier weighted papers and fine, handmade papers. I buy my paper from Paper Source and small stationary boutiques. I prefer single sheets to rolls and love the classic craft paper.
5. What would you advise as first steps for someone who wants to get a gift wrapping technique down?
My advice is measure twice and cut once. It’s all in the measurements. If you measure correctly before you wrap the paper onto the gift, it will make wrapping much easier and more enjoyable.