PAPER CRAFTS / BEGINNER FRIENDLY
SIMPLE FOLDS, THOUGHTFUL GIFTING
How to Make a Shiny Paper Gift Box with a Ribbon
Turn metallic craft paper into a slim handmade gift box. Follow the folds, close the base, and finish your creation with a ribbon bow.
Skill level: Beginner • Project: Paper gift box • Finish: Ribbon bow
WATCH THE PROJECT
Video by MyMillionCrafts. Follow the written steps below at your own pace.
A little box made with care
Make a beautiful home for a small surprise with a sheet of craft paper and a few simple tools. Change the paper and ribbon colors to suit birthdays, party favors, or a thoughtful handmade gift.
GATHER YOUR SUPPLIES
Materials and tools
• Rectangular sheet of metallic craft paper or lightweight cardstock
• Ruler and pencil
• Scissors
• Hole punch
• Narrow ribbon
• Glue or double-sided tape, if needed to secure the seam
A note on measurements
The video does not show readable measurements. Choose a sheet that fits your intended gift and use scrap paper for a test first. The example creates a tall, slim box.
LET’S MAKE IT
Step-by-step instructions
Take your time with each crease. The video above shows the folding motion.
STEP 01
Mark your folding lines
Place the plain side of the paper face up. Draw parallel lines along its length to form the box panels, leaving a narrow edge for a joining flap. Draw a line across one short end to mark the bottom flaps.
STEP 02
Fold the long panels
Fold along the lengthwise lines and press each crease firmly. Keep the metallic side on the outside of the finished box.
STEP 03
Form the box shape
Bring the long edges together to make a narrow rectangular tube. Overlap the joining edge and secure it with glue or double-sided tape if needed.
STEP 04
Cut the bottom flaps
At the end marked for the base, cut along the panel creases up to the crosswise line. Take care not to cut beyond it.
STEP 05
Close the base
Fold the flaps inward, overlapping them to close the bottom. Add a little glue or tape if the flaps need extra support.
STEP 06
Add your small gift
Place a small, lightweight item inside. A rolled note or a slim party favor can work well if it fits without forcing the sides.
STEP 07
Fold and punch the top
Press the open top together, folding the sides inward. Punch a hole through the flattened closure.
STEP 08
Tie a ribbon bow
Thread narrow ribbon through the hole and tie a bow. Adjust the loops and trim the ends to finish.
HELPFUL NOTES
Tips for a neat finish
Choose firm paper
Lightweight cardstock or firm craft paper will help the finished box keep its shape.
Check the base
Test the folded bottom before adding your gift, and secure it if necessary.
Try a test fold
Use scrap paper first if you need the box to fit a specific item.
Make it your own
Try patterned paper, a different ribbon color, or a handwritten gift tag.
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
Frequently asked questions
Can I use regular paper?
Yes. Thinner paper works for a very light item, although firmer paper holds its shape better.
Can I change the size?
Yes. Adjust the starting rectangle and panel widths to fit your gift. Make a test version first.
What can I put inside?
Choose a small, lightweight item that fits the slim box comfortably, such as a rolled note or a narrow party favor.
Watch the original video
This project is based on “Stop Buying Expensive Gift Boxes!” by MyMillionCrafts. Watch the original for a closer look at the folds.