Wrap it up

It’s finally December. The air is getting colder, ugly sweaters are coming out of their seasonal hibernation and, with the holiday season just around the corner, most have a running countdown going until Christmas. There are only 17 days to go, people, and you know what that means — presents.

For some, the holiday season is a chance to give, to show appreciation for precious friends and family members, blah blah blah, long story short: it’s time for stuff — glorious, meaningless stuff. With time ticking away, here’s a quick reminder on how to wrap presents.

• Step 1: Remove the price tag and place the present in a box.

• Step 2: Measure the box’s circumference; add 2 to 4 inches to the final measurement and cut wrapping paper to fit.

• Step 3: Fold one edge of the wrapping paper over a few inches to ensure a clean, straight line.

• Step 4: Bring the opposite side over before placing the folded side over it, securing it with clear tape.

• Step 5: On the ends, fold the top flap of paper over the end before folding the bottom flap inward.

• Step 6: Complete the flap by folding the end in an inch or two, creating a straight edge.

• Step 7: Fold the flap up and secure with tape before repeating the last steps on the other end.

• Step 8: To make the package look crisp and neat, use your fingers to crease the edges of the package.

• Step 9: For a decorative touch, fold a ribbon and secure it with tape or a sticker.

If you’re short on time, a simple gift bag with tissue paper is quick and easy. For last-minute wrapping paper, the comics section of the newspaper is a colorful replacement.

Special thanks to the Girl Scouts of Colorado gift-wrapping station in the Foothills Mall. Volunteers will be offering their gift-wrapping services through Dec. 24.

City Council Beat Reporter Erin Udell can be reached at news@collegian.com.