Jane Means, who has wrapped for the Royal Family and celebrities, shares professional secrets for perfect presents including cost-saving tips and decorative finishing touches
08:00, 23 Dec 2025Updated 08:14, 23 Dec 2025
It’s better to not always use wrapping paper, but other materials, the expert suggests(Image: Getty)
A shocking number of Brits struggle to wrap presents successfully, but according to this Royal wrapping specialist, it’s because we’ve been approaching it incorrectly.
Jane Means, who has provided wrapping services for the Royal Family alongside numerous other celebrities, has revealed some of the most common blunders and essential techniques for perfecting your gift presentation this Christmas. Speaking to The Motor Ombudsman, she outlined her top strategies for ensuring your wrapping never disappoints again.
Jane revealed: “Wrapping presents can seem like a simple task, but most people struggle with it. Using too little or too much paper, folding it in the wrong places, and drowning it in far too much tape can make the process much more cumbersome and stressful than it needs to be.” Typical frustrations often include being unable to locate the tape end, running short of paper, cutting sheets too small, or confronting awkwardly-shaped round gifts, reports the Express. All of these issues can transform what ought to be a straightforward activity into something we approach with dread, but by adjusting your methods, you can sidestep all the irritation and disputes whilst achieving flawlessly wrapped presents.
Different shaped gifts require different techniques(Image: Getty)
The specialist advises that different shapes and sizes demand varying approaches. Beginning with a basic box, employing double-sided tape will create a professional result and seamless appearance, particularly when ensuring there’s no surplus paper complicating matters. For those awkwardly shaped presents, opting for a flexible material can make the wrapping process less of a headache.
Using tissue, cellophane or fabric allows it to mould more easily around the shape than traditional wrapping paper. If an item is particularly bulky, it’s recommended to wrap it in a paper tablecloth, which is both easier and more cost-effective. For extra-large gifts, Jane suggests using brown packing paper as your base and adding a decorative print across the middle, finished with ribbon. This approach is not only eye-catching but also more economical than using an entire roll of wrapping paper, with ribbon that might look somewhat lost.
When it comes to gift tags, these can quickly undo all your hard work if not handled carefully. Jane advises writing them out first before placing them on the gifts immediately so you don’t forget who they’re for once they all look identical. The finishing touches are what truly personalise gift-giving and make your wrapping stand out from the crowd. Why not elevate it by adding fresh foliage, baubles, feathers or even some old recycled Christmas decorations?
You could even go a step further and add a personal touch with dried flowers or photocopied old photos attached to the top of your gift. This year, be sure to plan ahead and buy your wrapping materials in bulk. You’ll often need more than you anticipate, and the last thing you want is to run out mid-wrap.
Any leftovers can simply be saved for next year. To save both time and money, consider bundling a few gifts together – a pile of presents can look quite impressive and help conserve your wrapping supplies. Above all, Jane encourages everyone to relish the festive experience and not let it become a source of stress. Create a cosy atmosphere, put on some tunes, pour yourself a glass of vino, or even invite mates over and turn it into a fun-filled evening.