How to Create the Perfect Gift Box: Colors, Ribbon & Finishing Touches

We've made the perfect gift box easy: everything you need is in one place. Start with your box in the right color and size, layer in tissue paper and crinkle shred filler, then finish with a ribbon for an unboxing they'll remember. Do those few things well and even the simplest gift feels considered and complete. Let's walk through it one easy step at a time.

Here's the nice part, every color and size shares the same signature box so whatever you choose will look like it belongs together. Ready? Let's build yours.

In this guide

• Start with the box: color and size
• Tissue paper
• Crinkle shred filler
• Ribbon: two ways to finish
• A branded touch
• Putting it all together
• Frequently Asked Questions

Start with the box: color and size

It all starts with two easy choices: your color and your size.

Color sets the whole mood, and you've got 17 to play with. Reach for a quiet neutral like ivory, black, or kraft, or go bold with something like magenta or red, whatever suits the person or the occasion. They all share the same signature style, so if you're making a batch they'll always look like they belong together.

Size is really just about fit. Measure your gift's length, width, and height (L x W x H), then round up rather than down so you've got a little room for a finishing layer. Not sure what will fit? Our gift box size guide walks you through all 11 sizes. Brand new to these boxes? Start with What Is a Magnetic Gift Box?

Tissue paper

Here's the little detail that makes someone pause when they open your gift. Line the box before the gift goes in, then fold a sheet over the top so the first thing they see is a soft, pretty layer that feels like part of the gift. It quietly protects anything delicate and hides any gaps. We stock tissue paper to match every box color so you can go fully monochromatic for a clean tonal look, or mix in a print if you'd rather have some contrast.

Crinkle shred filler

Crinkle shred filler is the workhorse that happens to look lovely. A little in the base cushions your gift, fills any extra depth so nothing slides around on the way and holds several items right where you want them. It also builds a bit of anticipation as they part it to reach what's inside. It's made from recyclable paper so a beautiful presentation can be an eco-conscious one. Keep it light and even so the lid still clicks shut.

Ribbon: two ways to finish

Now for the finishing touch. Ribbon is what ties the whole thing together; how you add it comes down to the box you choose.

Boxes with a ribbon slot. Most of our sizes have a built-in slot and arrive with a changeable grosgrain ribbon. Choose your color when you order, and since it simply threads through the slot, you can slide it out and swap it whenever you like. One box, a fresh look for every occasion, season, or brand.

Plain boxes, no slot. Love a clean, uninterrupted box, or a more classic look? Finish it with our grosgrain ribbon on a roll, tied around the box the traditional way. It comes in plenty of colors, and you can keep it simple or go all out.

Not sure how much you'll need? Each grosgrain ribbon color has a handy guide in its product tabs showing how much ribbon each box size takes, so you'll know exactly how much to order.

Never tied a wrap-around bow before? Watch the quick how-to below that walks you through it start to finish.

A branded touch

Creating gifts for a corporate order, a big event, or something smaller like a bridal party or client welcome? There are two easy ways to add your brand. Our custom satin ribbon can be purchased on its own or added to any ribbon-slot box for a coordinated look. For a fully branded finish, we can print your logo or message right on in-stock boxes with a minimum of 12.

Putting it all together

Here's the order that works every single time:

• Assemble the box. A ribbon-slot box arrives with your chosen ribbon already threaded, so it's ready to go. Going with a plain box? Set your grosgrain aside to tie on at the end.
• Add a base layer of crinkle shred filler.
• Place your gift so it sits level and centered.
• Tuck in tissue paper around and over the top.
• Close the lid and make sure it sits flush.
• Finish with ribbon. Tie your slotted ribbon or grosgrain around the box in a wrap-around bow.

Making a collection? Choose one size and color. Fill each box the same way and the whole set will look polished and consistent, ideal for weddings, events, and client mailings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the perfect gift box?

Three simple things: a color that suits the occasion, a layer of tissue paper or crinkle shred filler so nothing looks bare, and a ribbon to finish. Keep it uncluttered and make sure the lid closes flush, because a box crammed too full never looks as good as one with a little breathing room.

Should I use tissue paper or crinkle shred filler?

Honestly, either or both. Tissue paper gives that clean, folded layer over the top, while crinkle shred filler cushions the gift and fills the depth underneath. Together they create the ultimate unboxing experience for the most polished look.

How much filler should I use?

A light even layer is plenty. Enough to cushion the gift and fill any gaps, but still leave room for the lid to close flush, usually about half an inch to an inch of clearance. Each crinkle product has a guide showing how much filler to use for that box size so you can order the right amount.

What kind of ribbon do the boxes use?

Boxes with a ribbon slot come with a changeable grosgrain ribbon so you choose the color and can swap it anytime. Plain boxes without a slot can be finished with our grosgrain ribbon on a roll, tied around the box the traditional way. The Small Square is ribbon-free, and the Triangle comes with a coordinating satin ribbon.

What is grosgrain ribbon?

Grosgrain (GROH-grayn) is a woven fabric ribbon with a distinctive ribbed texture and a subtle, low-sheen finish. It's sturdy and structured so it holds a crisp bow that won't go limp, which makes it a go-to for gift boxes, favors, and elegant packaging. Ours comes in a range of colors made to match the boxes.

What ribbon is used for custom printing?

That's our custom satin ribbon, which is different from the standard grosgrain that comes with the boxes. It's a high-quality double-faced satin that is exceptionally soft, smooth, and flexible with enough body to hold up for bows. With a lustrous sheen on both sides, it gives a polished, luxurious look from every angle, and it can be printed with your logo or message. So think grosgrain for your everyday finish and swappable color, and double-faced satin when you want a printed, branded touch.

Can I add my logo to the box?

You can. We offer custom printing on in-stock boxes with a minimum order of 12, and custom satin ribbon can be added for a coordinated branded finish.