Not sure how to pack a gift hamper so it looks full, stays tidy and feels special? You are not alone. Many hampers end up with items sliding around, empty gaps and a wrap that looks rushed.

The fix is simple: a base, some filler, a plan for where each item goes and a neat wrap. This guide shows you how to pack a gift hamper in seven steps, and it works for Diwali, weddings, birthdays and Christmas alike.

What you need to pack a gift hamper

To pack a gift hamper you need a box or basket, shredded paper filler (also called paper grass), your gifts, a wrapping sheet, ribbon, tape, scissors and a gift tag. Gather everything first so you can work without stopping.

Choose a base that fits your items snugly. A base that is too big needs a lot of filler and the items still look lost, while one that is too small looks crowded and is hard to close.

How to pack a gift hamper in 7 steps

Step 1: Line the base with filler

Fluff the shredded paper with your hands before you use it. Pulling the strands apart makes them fuller, so a little goes further. Spread a layer across the bottom of the box as a cushion for your items.

Here are two filler options to start with:

Step 2: Place the tall and heavy items first

Put the tallest or heaviest item at the back and arrange the rest in front of it, with the smaller items at the front. Picture how the hamper will look when the lid is off or the wrap is on. Items at the back should show above the ones in front.

Step 3: Fill the gaps

Tuck filler into every space between the items so nothing can shift. Press gently as you go. The goal is a hamper that does not rattle when you lift it.

Step 4: Keep food sealed

If your hamper has sweets or snacks, keep them in sealed packs or boxes. Do not place loose food directly on the paper filler, and keep oily or sticky items in a closed container.

Step 5: Wrap the hamper

Lay a wrapping sheet flat, place the box in the centre and bring the sides up and over. Fold the ends neatly like a present and tape them on the back of the sheet, so the tape does not show. For a basket, gather the sheet around the top and tie it with ribbon.

These sheets are sold for flower bouquets, gift hampers and wrapping:

Step 6: Add a ribbon

One ribbon in a matching colour is enough. A single neat bow looks better than several layers.

Step 7: Finish with a tag

Add a handwritten tag with a short message. If you like, tuck a few dried flowers under the ribbon for a boutique touch. See our dried flower ideas for more.

Which filler colour should you choose?

Match the filler to the occasion, or keep it neutral. Orange, yellow, gold or a mixed pack suits Diwali. Cream or off-white looks clean for weddings and formal gifts, a multicolour mix feels playful for birthdays and kids, and pink and white suits Valentine's Day or baby showers.

Our paper grass range has a four-colour mix, a pink and white mix and a cream option, in different pack sizes. Here is the cream option:

Common mistakes when packing a gift hamper

• Overfilling. Too much filler makes the box hard to close. Add just enough to hold the items in place.
• Mixing too many colours. Stay with one or two.
• Visible tape. Always tape on the back of the wrapping sheet.
• Filler near flames. Paper is flammable, so keep filler away from diyas and candles.

Gift hamper packing FAQs

How much filler do I need for a gift hamper?

There is no exact amount. Start with a small handful, fluff it, and add more until the gaps are filled and the items stay put. If you are only packing one or two hampers, a small pack is enough.

How do I stop items from moving inside the hamper?

Fill every gap with filler and press it down gently. Place heavy items at the bottom and back, and add a little extra filler around anything fragile.

Can I wrap a hamper without cellophane?

Yes. A wrapping sheet works well, and you can tie the top with ribbon. Tape it on the back of the sheet so the tape does not show.

Can I reuse paper filler?

You can reuse filler that is clean and undamaged. Keep it in a closed bag away from moisture until you need it again.

Ready to pack?

Browse our gift wrapping paper and paper grass for everything on this list. For festive ideas on what to put inside, read our guide to Diwali gift hamper ideas. If you also wrap flowers, see Korean style bouquet wrapping.

You can order on Amazon.in, order through WhatsApp or reserve an item for self pickup from our store in Kandivali East, Mumbai.