Gift Wrapping Paper Calculator
Calculate wrapping paper needed for any box from dimensions in inches or cm.
Returns sheet size with 2-inch overlap and gifts per standard 25 or 40 sq ft roll.
Gift wrapping paper sizing ensures you cut a piece large enough to cover all six sides of a box without gaps, while minimizing waste. The formula is based on the box’s three dimensions: length (L), width (W), and height (H).
Wrapping paper dimensions formula: Paper Length = 2H + L + (2 × Fold Overlap) Paper Width = 2H + W + (2 × Fold Overlap)
Where:
- L = box length (longest horizontal dimension)
- W = box width (shorter horizontal dimension)
- H = box height (vertical dimension)
- Fold Overlap = extra paper needed for tucking and folding (typically 1–2 inches per side)
Simplified formula (for standard diagonal wrapping): Paper Size = (2L + 2W) × (L + 2H) — approximate for diagonal/department-store method
Paper area formula: Area = Paper Length × Paper Width (in square feet or square inches)
Wrapping paper cost formula: Cost = (Area Required ÷ Area per Roll) × Price per Roll
Standard rolls: 30 sq ft to 100 sq ft per roll; premium rolls: $6–$15 each.
Worked example — straight wrap method: Box: 12" long × 8" wide × 4" tall. Fold overlap: 1.5" per side.
- Paper length = (2 × 4) + 12 + (2 × 1.5) = 8 + 12 + 3 = 23 inches
- Paper width = (2 × 4) + 8 + (2 × 1.5) = 8 + 8 + 3 = 19 inches
- Paper area = 23 × 19 = 437 square inches = 3.04 square feet
From a 30 sq ft roll: 30 ÷ 3.04 = ~9 boxes can be wrapped per roll.
Pro tip: Pre-measure and mark your cuts with a ruler before cutting — you’ll use about 20% less paper and get cleaner folds. For oddly shaped gifts, wrap in tissue paper first to create a box-like shape, then wrap normally.