DIY Paper Gift Bags

When you are in a huge gift-giving family like mine, there is always a shortage of gift bags, and getting cute ones can get pricey. Instead of wasting my money (and let’s be honest, I’m cheap), I decided to give making my own gift bags a go and let me tell you, it’s so easy and so fun! The possibilities are endless and they are way cuter than store bought ones (if I do say so myself). I’m still giddy thinking up more paper and pattern combos for my next gift bag, and you will be too!

You can make any variety of color, size, or style you’d like, but here’s how I made mine and then you can go from there:

• Cardstock Warehouse Cardstock Papers in Fuchsia Pink (2 pieces of 8.5x11)
• Patterned Paper
• Ruler
• ¼ inch Hole Punch
• White Ribbon
• Permanent Adhesive (I used Xyron tape runner)
• Writing utensil
• Scissors

First, measure out your paper as pictured, 2 inches in on both sides vertically, and two inches horizontally in along the bottom. Do this on both sheets of pink paper. I pressed down hard with my pen because it also worked as a scorer.

Then on one sheet, cut up the two vertical lines until you reach the end of the box you made, two inches up. On the second sheet, you’ll want to cut the two boxes out completely. Once you’re done, you should have two sheets of paper that look like the ones pictured.

Next, fold the paper in on the scored and marked lines to bring them together. Using the paper with just two slices, glue it together to form a half box, and then glue the second paper into the first as shown. Now you have the base of your paper bag!

I then chose some fun patterned paper and just replicated what I did on the pink paper, but with only doing a two inch column, and marked two inches in on both sides of the column so that I would know where to fold. Cut two identical columns and then glue them together in a similar manner as pictured so that it forms a square ring. You will the slip this over the top of your bag base to overlap. You can glue in place, but the handles will also hold it in place.

To make handles for your gift bag, punch two holes about one inch down from the top and thread some ribbon through the hole. Tie a double knot to ensure it won't slip back out and then loop the other end of the ribbon through the second hole on the same side of the bag. Make another knot and you now have one handle! Now just repeat these steps on the other side of the bag.

You now have a super cute custom bag that you can do so much with! I may have some glitter paper on the mind for my next go at a gift bag and I couldn't be more excited! Happy crafting!

What are you going to put in your homemade bags? We'd love to see! Tag us in your creations on Facebook and Instagram to be featured on our account! 

Happy Crafting!
Tara