how to create paper bag

Making beautiful paper bags draws on one's creativity. The key is the type of paper used to make them special. They can be used as an embellished container for gifts instead of boxes, or as a carrier for one's lunch or a child's snack. Versatile, decorative and appreciated by any user or recipient, making beautiful paper bags is a craft project for children and adults. Make different sizes and themes, and keep a supply ready to use for any occasion.

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Decorative papers from expired wallpaper sample Books
• Scissors
• Hot glue gun and glue sticks

1. Four Steps

   • 1
     Wide variety of paper samples

     Browse wallpaper sample books and remove your choice of papers to make a variety of beautiful paper bags. You can make one bag from one sheet of paper, or two smaller bags from one sheet. Textures, patterns and colors will vary from white bridal paper to dark shades, plaids, stripes or floral, country and juvenile. Part of the enjoyment of doing this project is the range of possibilities.

   • 2

     Fold one sheet in half to make one bag from one sheet of paper. If any side is torn or jagged, cut so that the edge is straight. Open flat with the wrong side up and fold 1/2 inch in along the length of each side and crease. Fold the edge of the top down 2 inches and crease flat. If you are making two smaller bags from one sheet, first fold and cut the sheet in half, then fold three sides as described above.

   • 3
     Folding the bag sides in

     Seal the length of the folded side of paper with the 1/2 inch closed and press the edges together--the wrong side of the paper in, and the right side of the paper out. Leave the top of the bag open (with the 2-inch folded edge). Then fold each side from both the sealed seam and the crease along the length of the bag in 2 inches (see diagram). Make sure the creases meet together when folded in, creating a 4-inch opening in the bag on each side.

   • 4
     Bottom opending folded, ready to seal closed

     Fold the entire bottom of the bag 4 inches up. Then open and fold the corners in like a triangle. (It's similar to folding the corners of wrapping paper for a gift box; see the diagram.) Open the bag and seal one flap with hot glue, one flap on top of the other. Press together and let it cool. This makes a very elegant opening for the bag. Fold the top of the bag and close it.

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