๐ Gift Wrap Size Calculator
Any consistent unit works (e.g. cm) โ just use the same unit for all values.
Enter a boxโs length, width, and height to calculate the size of wrapping paper (width and length) needed to neatly wrap it. Adjust the overlap and end-fold allowances to your preference.
How to use
- Enter the boxโs length, width, and height.
- Adjust the overlap and end-fold allowances if needed (sensible defaults are provided).
- The required paper width and length are calculated automatically.
How the calculation works
Enter a boxโs length, width and height to work out the size of wrapping paper needed. It assumes the paper goes once around the box widthways, with the two ends folded in (the standard straight wrap). Paper width = 2 ร (width + height) + overlap Paper length = length + 2 ร height + 2 ร end fold The overlap is the part that overlaps to be taped where the paper meets, and the end fold is the extra for folding the ends neatly.
Worked example
A 30 cm ร 20 cm ร 10 cm box, 3 cm overlap, 2 cm end fold Paper width = 2 ร (20 + 10) + 3 = 63 cm Paper length = 30 + 2 ร 10 + 2 ร 2 = 54 cm โ you need at least 63 cm ร 54 cm Use it to check whether a box fits on a standard sheet (such as 70 cm ร 100 cm).
Things to be aware of
- The length allows a full box height at each end, a generous guide. Depending on how you fold, about length + height can be enough.
- With patterned paper, allow a little extra to line up the pattern.
- The diagonal (department-store) wrap needs a different paper size calculation.
FAQ
What formula does this use?
Paper width = 2ร(width+height)+overlap, and paper length = length+2รheight+2รend-fold โ a common rule-of-thumb formula for gift wrapping.
What are the overlap and end-fold allowances?
Overlap is the extra paper needed where it wraps around and overlaps for taping. End-fold is the extra allowance for neatly folding in the two open ends. Adjust these to your preference.
Is this calculation exact?
This is a rule-of-thumb formula โ the actual amount needed varies a bit depending on your wrapping technique (corner folds, ribbons, etc.). Itโs a good idea to prepare a little extra.