There’s something quietly powerful about a gift that looks handmade before it’s even opened. You know the ones. They're not flashy. They literally feel thoughtful. It's the kind of gift wrap that makes someone pause before tearing it open because it already feels special.
Well, my friend, you can give someone that exact experience. The best part? You don’t need perfect handwriting, calligraphy skills, or expensive supplies to make it happen. You don’t even need to be “good at art.” You just need paper, a pen or brush, and permission to keep things simple.
Let’s talk about how to turn plain paper into personalized gift wrap using easy mark making techniques that anyone can do.
What you'll need:
- any paper
- ribbon
- brush pens
- tape
You don’t need much. A brush pen or marker is ideal because it naturally adds variation to your marks. Thicker and thinner lines happen without you trying too hard.
If you’re using a brush pen, one tip makes a huge difference. Grip it higher than you normally would, closer to the middle of the pen, and hold it at about a 45-degree angle. That alone creates a looser, more expressive look.
Start with the simplest paper you can find
This works beautifully on kraft paper, which is inexpensive, forgiving, and already has a warm handmade feel. You can often find a smaller roll for just a dollar! White paper works too. So does butcher paper, grocery bags, or paper you already have lying around.
Lay your paper flat on a table or floor before wrapping. This gives you space to play.
Technique 1: Scribbles that feel intentional
Scribbling is not a fallback. It’s a design choice! Lightly move your pen across the paper making loose, wandering lines. Break it up. Leave some space. Let your hand move without overthinking where it’s going.
When repeated across the paper, scribbles create a beautiful organic pattern that feels playful and modern. It’s especially great if you don’t love your handwriting or want something abstract.
Technique 2: Repeated handwriting
This one surprises people. You don’t need calligraphy. You don’t need perfect letters. Your normal handwriting works beautifully when it’s repeated (yes, seriously).
Choose a name, a word, or even a phrase. Write it over and over across the paper. Stagger the placement. Try writing on a slight diagonal to add movement.
💡 Here’s the secret: when handwriting is condensed and repeated, individual imperfections disappear. What you see instead is rhythm.
🔥 Hot tip: If you’re wrapping a small box, write smaller. For a larger box, write bigger so the pattern doesn’t feel cramped.
Technique 3: Dots, marks, & brush strokes
If you’re ever unsure what to do, dots are your friend. Little clusters of marks help fill space and balance busier areas. You can also repeat simple shapes like short lines, tiny trees, or abstract marks.
Try dipping a brush in paint or use a juicy brush pen and make single strokes across the page. Vary the pressure slightly. Let some strokes be imperfect or dry. You can keep them all going in one direction or mix it up. This technique feels bold and graphic and looks especially striking on kraft paper.
Think of patterned wrapping paper you’ve bought in stores. Most of it is just simple shapes repeated thoughtfully.
Color choices that feel elevated
You don’t need every color. A limited color palette goes a long way.
Black or white ink on kraft paper paired with red ribbon feels classic and elevated. Black and red together feel warm and intentional. A single solid color can feel modern and sophisticated. Psst... fewer choices often make things look more expensive 🤑
Wrap it up (aka let the ribbon do its thing)
Once your paper is finished, wrap the gift. Then add a simple ribbon, twine, or string to finish it off and bring everything together. That’s it!
Just organic marks made by hand that turn a simple gift into something personal.
And fair warning. People may not want to throw this wrapping away.
