There is something about an unwrapped present that enchants everybody—the contents could be the thing you want most of all. If you can keep the wrapping instead of putting it in the recycling bin (or ironing it flat for another gift, as I do) then this is so much better, especially if the gift has come in a beautiful keepsake box. Here are twenty such boxes, plus another twenty ideas for variations.

I’ve loved making my own boxes since I learned how to make nets in a school math class, and the ones in here are truly lovely. They cover a variety of occasions, including Christmas, Valentines Day, Easter, New Baby and Wedding as well as those for more general use. Make a cupcake box, wee shopping bag, pram, angel, geisha, trainer, and even a snowman made from a stack of small boxes. To do this there are some nets and templates, but many boxes are the plain ones you can buy in craft shops to decorate, which is good for a beginner or anybody in a hurry. You can also recycle old gift boxes in this way. Many more boxes are made using a Cricut die cutting machine as well as several craft punches, so unless you are an expert net designer, one of these might be a good investment if you plan to make a lot of boxes. I was drawn to the sheer inventiveness of the boxes, and their lovely neat appearance decked out with the addition of die cut or punched shapes, ribbons, beads and more. To complete the look each box also has an accompanying tag idea, so your presents have never looked so smart. A lovely book that is sure to be dipped into many times.