A well-chosen art print is an excellent gift — but art prints have a slightly awkward profile (literally and figuratively) for traditional gift presentation. They're flat, they're rectangular, they don't fit in standard gift bags, and if you use tissue paper over a framed print and add a bow you end up with a present that announces its own identity before it's been opened. Here are practical approaches to presenting Wild Thread prints and other art print gifts well.
Wild Thread Packaging
Wild Thread prints and framed prints arrive in protective packaging that provides a reasonable base for gift presentation:
- Fine art unframed prints: Delivered in a cardboard tube or flat between protective boards. The tube format can be presented as-is with a ribbon, or the print can be removed and wrapped flat.
- Framed prints: Delivered in a rigid box with protective foam or card corners. The box is clean enough to present without additional wrapping, with just a ribbon or bow if needed.
- Canvas prints: Delivered in a flat box. Present in the box with a ribbon, or unwrap and present the canvas directly.
Wrapping Approaches for Art Prints
The Flat Wrap (Unframed Prints)
For unframed A4, A3, or A2 prints, place the print between two pieces of corrugated card (the same size as the print or slightly larger), then wrap the sandwich in quality kraft paper or heavy wrapping paper. Fold the edges neatly, seal with washi tape or a contrasting tape, and add a ribbon across the front. The result looks like a proper flat gift package rather than an oddly shaped mystery.
The Framed Print Wrap
A framed print is best wrapped similarly — either use a large sheet of quality paper and wrap the frame directly (tissue paper underneath to protect the glazing), or leave in its delivery box and wrap the box. A box-wrapped framed print is cleaner and protects the frame better than a bare-frame wrap.
The Gift Bag Approach
For mugs and smaller items (A4 prints, tote bags), a large quality gift bag with tissue paper is the simplest approach. A4 prints fit most large portrait gift bags; mugs can be wrapped in tissue inside any size bag.
The Direct Presentation
For large canvas or A2 framed prints, direct presentation — unwrapped, carried in and revealed — can be more impressive than wrapped. "I didn't wrap it because the packaging was better than anything I could do" is both honest and flattering about the print itself. Lean it against the wall, let them see it.
Adding a Personal Note
The most important addition to any art print gift is a note that explains why you chose this subject for this person. "I chose the kingfisher because you mention it every time you walk the canal" is worth more than any wrapping. A handwritten note attached to or inside the gift adds the layer of personal thought that makes the gift complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Wild Thread prints come in gift-ready packaging?
Wild Thread prints and framed prints arrive in protective packaging that is clean and presentable — suitable for direct presentation with a ribbon or a brief additional wrap. The packaging prioritises print protection, so it's functional rather than decorative, but it photographs well and looks professional at the point of giving.
Can I request gift wrapping from Wild Thread?
Wild Thread does not currently offer a gift wrapping service at point of order. Prints arrive in their standard protective packaging. For gift presentation, the approaches described above — a flat wrap for unframed prints, box presentation for framed prints — produce the best results.
How do I transport a framed print to give as a gift?
Wild Thread framed prints arrive with corner protection in a rigid box. For transport to a gift-giving occasion, keep the print in its delivery box — this provides the best protection. Only remove from the box at the point of presentation.
What is the best way to wrap a tube-delivered art print?
For a print delivered in a cardboard tube: tie a ribbon around the middle of the tube and add a tag. Simple, clean, and the cylindrical shape is distinctive enough that you don't need elaborate wrapping. Alternatively, remove the print from the tube and flat-wrap it between stiff boards as described above.
Browse Wild Thread framed art prints — ready-to-hang gifts for any occasion