How to make gift bags out of wrapping paper

        Let the Christmas projects begin! I am so excited about the projects for Christmas that I want to share with you over the next few weeks. This first one was inspired by my aunt who asked if I had ever seen anywhere how to make gift bags out of wrapping paper! I had never heard of such a thing (I am a newbie to this blogging world - I'm sure its out there somewhere!) but it sounded like an amazing idea, so I had to give it a try, and here are the results.

I started this process by deconstructing a paper bag (lunch sack size) and working from that as a template. Then I came up with a larger size and I will share the dimensions for both. The dimensions in parentheses will be for the larger bag, but the steps remain the same.

           
  Supplies you will need:

• Wrapping paper (heavy duty for a more durable bag)
• Scissors
• Glue
• Embellishments 
•  

      The steps:
1)  Cut your wrapping paper 17&1/4" by 12&3/4"  (15&3/4" by 22&1/4)

Don't mind the mess in the background! ;)

2)  Lay print side down and fold your paper 2" up from the bottom (3&3/4")

3)  Fold each side in 3", then 3" more (4" then 4")

 

4) Cut the bottom flaps as shown

You are cutting at each fold seam

5)  Glue your long seam (from top to bottom) overlapping the edge by about 1/2". It helps to flip your bag around so you can press against the table.

 

5)   Fold in the long sides of your bag so that the bag lays flat.

 

6) Glue the bottom flaps

Be generous with the glue so your bag will hold as much as you want to put in it

7) If you want to, cut the top edges of your bag with pinking shears, scrapbooking scissors or one of these types of stamps.

8) Now you have a very cute bag and can embellish it any way you want!

     Making your own bags is a great way to save money. These bags cost less than .05 cents to make each. What could better than to make something for someone else and save money in the process! Happy crafting!

              - Jody


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