Looking for a fun and practical way to wrap gifts?
This easy gift wrapping idea with a handle is perfect for flat or rectangular presents — think books, clothing, puzzles, or notebooks.
With just wrapping paper, tape, and a bit of ribbon or cord, you can add a charming twist that makes any gift feel that little bit more thoughtful.
Great for birthdays, Christmas, baby showers, and more!
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Whether you're wrapping a birthday present, a baby shower gift, or something special for the holidays, this clever gift wrapping idea adds a touch of fun and function — a handle!
It’s perfect for those gifts that are tricky to carry or you want to make stand out just a little more. It’s simple to make, doesn’t require any special materials, and works well for gifts that are flat or rectangular in shape.
Think books, scarves, stationery sets, clothing items, coloring books, puzzles, and even a box of chocolates — anything that isn’t overly bulky or round.
The bonus? It doubles as a cute presentation and an easy way for the gift recipient to carry it home!
This gift wrapping idea with a handle works beautifully for all kinds of occasions — from baby showers and birthdays to Christmas, Easter, and even teacher appreciation gifts.
It’s a great option when you're wrapping flat items for special events and want something that stands out.
Whether it’s for a holiday celebration or a casual party, this idea is both charming and practical.
This idea is particularly sweet for baby showers, where guests often gift books, blankets, or cute little outfits.
But it also works beautifully for Christmas, birthdays, teacher gifts, or any time you want to make a little something feel extra special without going overboard on packaging.
You can customize the handle with whatever you have on hand — a piece of twine, soft ribbon, even a chain or bracelet (depending on the size of the gift) if you want to add a little sparkle.
It's a small touch that makes a big difference, and it’s totally doable even if you’re not a seasoned gift-wrapper.
Ready to try it out?
Grab your materials and your gift — and let’s get wrapping!
Why You'll Love This Pattern
- Great way to take your gift stand out with minimal effort
- Adds a practical and decorative touch with the handle
- Easy enough for beginners and fun to customize
- Works well for a wide range of gift-giving occasions
- Can be made quickly, even last-minute
Skill Level
★☆☆☆☆ (Very Easy)
Materials Needed
- Wrapping paper of choice
- Your gift!
- Tape – ordinary or double sided tape
- Scissors
- Something for your handle – you could use a chain, necklace, ribbon, cord, so on.
Instructions
Step 1: Cut your wrapping paper to size. You want the bottom edge to have enough that it can fold up just about a quarter of the gift.
The sides of the gift should have enough to cover the gift (e.g. 1 times the width of the gift on either side). The top will need to be at least 1 ¼ times the length of the gift.
Step 2: Fold the left edge over to cover your gift. Then fold the right edge over your gift, so that it overlaps the left.
Tape along the middle of the gift as well as the top section. If you want to hide the tape, you could use double sided tape. For this tutorial we have used ordinary tape so you can see where we have taped it together as a guide.
Step 3: Using your fingers, run them along the bottom edge of your gift. Then bring the paper down as shown.
Step 4: Straighten out the bottom right and left sides of the paper as shown. Make sure they align with the sides of the gift.
Step 5: Fold both the left and right sides of the bottom edge in.
Step 6: Fold the bottom edge up (note; if you think your bottom edge is a bit too long, you can trim it down slightly) and secure it with tape. You don’t want the bottom edge to go over the top of the gift.
Step 7: Flatten the top section as shown. Start from the top and gradually crease the edges, working your way down.
Step 8: Place your chain (ribbon, or whatever you have chosen to use as the handle) on the top of your wrapping as shown. Tape it in place.
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Step 9: Fold the top edge down slightly so that it covers the handle your just attached.
Step 10: Fold the top edge down again, using the edge of the fold from the previous step as a guide.
Step 11: Keep folding the top section down until you reach the top of the gift and can’t fold down anymore.
Step 12: Place you gift so it stands as shown and fold down the top section one more time and place the top folded section on top as shown.
Apply some tape or glue to where the bottom of the folds and the top of the gift meet.
Completed gift wrap with handle.
Tips For Success
- Choose slightly thicker wrapping paper if you’re using a heavier handle
- Double-sided tape helps keep everything neat and tidy
- Make a matching gift tag using the same wrapping paper scraps
- Try coordinating your handle material with your wrapping paper for a polished look
- Keep it simple — the handle is the highlight!
Common Mistakes & How To Avoid Them
- Using a gift that’s too bulky – Stick with flatter shapes to avoid tearing the paper
- Handle not secure enough – Add a bit of extra tape or even glue dots if needed
- Paper too thin – Lightweight paper can tear easily; use midweight or reinforce inside
- Not centering the handle – Measure or eyeball it before attaching so it looks balanced
Color, Paper Ideas, and Variations
- Pastel paper with a satin ribbon – Great for baby showers or springtime gifting
- Bold prints with a braided cord – Adds a playful, creative feel for birthdays
- Metallic or foil paper with a chain handle – Perfect for festive holidays like Christmas or New Year’s
- Brown kraft paper with twine or a beaded bracelet – A rustic and charming option for teacher gifts or casual celebrations
- Themed wrapping paper with coordinating yarn – Match to the season or recipient’s favorite colors
FAQ
Flat, rectangular, or square items like books, puzzles, clothing, and notebooks are ideal.
As long as the handle is securely attached and the gift isn’t too heavy, yes — though it’s better for lightweight items.
Use stronger tape or glue where the handle attaches, and reinforce the inside of the wrapping if needed.
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Taylor says
This was just perfect! It made my present even more special. My friend loved the wrapping so much she didn't want to unwrap it!