Big shapes first, small details last. Every step adds just one thing, so even your most hesitant artists finish with a present they are proud of.
Before you start: a pencil, an eraser, a sheet of paper and something to colour with.
Draw lightly at first. Dark lines come at the end, once the shapes look right.
Step-by-step: how to draw a present
Step 1. Box
Draw a big square box.
Step 2. Lid
Add the lid on top.
Step 3. Ribbon
Draw the ribbon: one line down, one across.
Step 4. Bow
Draw a big bow on top.
Step 5. Eyes
Draw two eyes.
Step 6. Smile
Add a smile.
Step 7. Arms
Give the box two arms.
Step 8. Feet
Add two feet.
Step 9. Ground
Draw the ground line.
Step 10. Sparkles
Add three sparkles.
Step 11. Create
Make one part completely yours.
The pink line is the new part in each step.
Make it theirs
- Add falling snow with dots or tiny stars.
- Draw a second, smaller one beside it.
- Fold the paper and turn it into a card for someone at home.
- Colour last. There is no wrong colour for a present.
Teaching it with the projector
The projector version draws each step slowly on the board, pauses while students copy it, then checks in before the next step. Nobody has to talk, so you are free to walk around and help.
Quick Fix: 7 steps, about 3 minutes. Good for a brain break or the last few minutes before recess. Full Focus: all 11 steps, about 5 minutes, with the extra detail.
Open Gift Box Buddy on the projector → It works on any classroom screen. No accounts, no student names, no ads.
Curriculum connections
Visual arts: the elements of design (line and shape) and creating art for a purpose. Language: listening to and following multi-step directions. Directed drawing also builds fine motor control and focus.