Forget another year just stacking your perfectly wrapped gifts under the tree, read our guide and learn how to arrange Christmas presents like a pro.

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How to Arrange Christmas Gifts

You're probably wondering - 'does arranging gifts really matter?'. Truth be told, Christmas is about spending time with those you love, not the presents - but stylishly arranging your gifts is a great way to add some flair to your festive decor rather than with just a few Christmas decorations. The art of present arranging is a subtle one (warning - it could go entirely unnoticed) but well worth the extra effort.

All Wrapped Up

Start by thinking about how you're going to wrap your presents. Try to have two or three kinds of wrapping paper in a similar colour palette. You want some variation to make your gifts look exciting, so try experimenting with boxes, bags and ribbons. Take a mental note of which presents are the most impressive, because these are best when placed strategically near the back. The vital thing here is to label the presents with the correct name tag.

Stacked for Success

Now for the main event: start arranging your presents from the back to the front, making sure that you alternate evenly by receiver. Create small stacks using a few larger presents, and then top with smaller gifts. These stacks should vary in size so that your tree looks like an artful collection, not a tower block. You ideally want your most exciting presents left until last, so keep smaller items (think socks, edibles, page-a-day calendars) to the front. Put really large items to the side so that they don't dwarf everything else, and this also acts to make the pile appear bigger than it probably is.

The Litter Things

When it comes to tearing open presents on Christmas morning, anyone who's ever had to clean up afterwards knows what a mess it can make. On top of this, if you're not careful then gifts can become swamped in the debris of presents past. Keep a black bin liner handy and get everyone to clear up as they go. Once the presents have all been opened, the tree can look a little bare and forlorn, so try taking yours up a notch style-wise and arrange it on top of a colourful tablecloth or faux fur rug. That way, your pièce de résistance will still be the focal point of the room post-Santa.

Tip: Deck the halls with even more festive ideas and inspiration:

• An Expert's Guide on How to Decorate for Christmas
• How to Decorate Your Home Scandi Style This Christmas
• Which Christmas Lights Will You Decorate With This Year?