If you’re a business owner in the world of retail, gifting, or artisan products, you already know presentation is everything. Beautiful packaging doesn’t just protect a product—it adds perceived value, enhances the customer experience, and often justifies a higher price point. But to make smart choices in packaging, it helps to understand the terminology.

From grosgrain to pull bows, here’s your essential glossary of gift packaging terms—designed to help you make informed (and visually stunning) decisions.

🎀 Ribbons That Raise the Bar

Grosgrain Ribbon
Pronounced “grow-grain,” this ribbon features tightly woven ridges and a slightly matte finish. Its firmness gives a clean, structured bow—ideal for premium branding and products that need a polished, professional look. See Grosgrain Ribbon

Petersham Ribbon
Similar to Grosgrain but with a scalloped edge and more flexibility. It curves well, making it great for wrapping around boxes or jars. Petersham adds a touch of sophistication without the rigidity. We source both Grosgrain or Petersham for our clients, Grosgrain being the more popular.

Satin Ribbon
The go-to for luxury packaging. Smooth, glossy, and available in single or double-faced varieties. A satin ribbon elevates even a simple kraft box into something gift-worthy. We sell Double-faced Satin (both sides are Satin) as it tends to be more premium!  See Satin Ribbon

Organza Ribbon
Sheer, lightweight, and shimmery—organza tends to be more crisp & structured than Chiffon.  Try Wired Ribbon

Chiffon Ribbon
Chiffon gives a soft, elegant feel, ideal for delicate or high-end feminine products like skincare or fashion accessories. See Chiffon Ribbon

Curling Ribbon
Affordable and fun, curling ribbon is often used for festive products, party favours, or seasonal promotions. It’s not high-end, but it’s perfect for volume-based sales with a playful twist. See Curling Ribbon

Pull Bow
A retailer’s secret weapon. These flat-packed bows “pop” into shape when the ribbon is pulled—perfect for quick application while still offering a high-impact look. Great for hampers or last-minute add-ons. See Pull Bows

📦 Wraps & Fillers That Sell

Counter Rolls or Jumbo Rolls
These are large rolls of paper, typically on a dispenser that is either mounted on the wall behind where you pay (in a shop) or under the counter.  See all Counter Rolls

Gift Wrap Sheets
From glossy metallics to eco-friendly kraft, gift wrap is your brand’s first impression. Choose colours and textures that align with your product and audience. See Sheets

Tissue Paper
A cost-effective way to add volume, colour, and protection. Printed or branded tissue paper is also a subtle way to reinforce your identity.  See Tissue Paper

Cellophane Wrap
Used to bundle hampers, bouquets, or baked goods. Transparent and shiny, it keeps items visible while adding a professional finish. See Cellophane

Filler / Shred / Sizzle
Crinkled paper, wood wool, or biodegradable void fill—these aren’t just for protection. They create a sense of abundance and discovery, enhancing perceived value. See Shred

Hamper Trays / Gift Boxes
Sturdy bases for curated sets. Use magnetic boxes or rigid trays to turn a few items into a high-ticket product bundle. Add ribbon, tags, or custom labels for the final touch. See Gift boxes

🛍️ Bags & Finishing Touches

Boutique style Bags
Gift bag with handles on the long edge, typically with ribbon or rope handles. Luxury bags

Rope Handle Paper Bags
Premium gift bags with rope handles and a boutique feel. Excellent for upselling in-store or offering VIP packaging services. Luxury bags

Tote bags
A reusable bag style, great for having your brand out there for ongoing marketing as clients will reuse.  Also great for putting together a goodie-bag or Give away for an Event, or to sell instore as a product. Reach out & discuss your requirements.

Gift Tags 
Small but mighty. Tags can be branded, seasonal, or plain. They give the client the chance to personalise their own gift for that “wow” moment. Gift tags

Over the bag label / bow 
Recycled gift bows from Kudos make the perfect finishing touch for a gift in a bag – or your own branded label. Bow Bag Seals

✨ Premium Packaging Lingo

Die Cut
Precision-cut shapes or windows in boxes or tags. Use die cuts to hint at what’s inside or reinforce your branding. Reach out & discuss your requirements.

Embossed
Raised lettering or texture that gives tactile luxury. Embossed logos or monograms instantly communicate quality. Reach out & discuss your requirements.

Foil Stamped
Shiny metallic finishes, usually in gold, silver, or rose gold. Perfect for luxury gift tags, boxes, or seasonal limited-edition packaging. Reach out & discuss your requirements.

Final Thoughts for Business Owners
Packaging isn’t just an extra—it’s an emotional amplifier. It turns an order into an experience, a product into a gift. Whether you offer it as an add-on service or build it into your pricing, thoughtful packaging sets your brand apart and keeps customers coming back.

And hey—every day’s a school day, especially when it helps you charge more and sell smarter.

For more help to understand expressions, feel free to Get in touch with us & set up a packaging discussion!