Have you ever found yourself with leftover wrapping paper and wondered what to do with it? Or maybe you’re in a pinch and realize you don’t have a gift bag for that special present. Enter the wrapping paper gift bag—a fun, eco-friendly, and budget-friendly way to craft something unique and personal.
Making a bag out of wrapping paper is easier than you think, and it requires only a few basic materials. Plus, it’s a great way to repurpose leftover wrapping paper while unleashing your creativity. Whether it’s for birthdays, holidays, or just because—this DIY solution adds a personal touch to your gift and is much kinder to your wallet and the planet.
Follow this step-by-step guide, and by the end, you’ll be able to create a custom bag that looks as professional as a store-bought one (but way more special).
Why Make a Wrapping Paper Bag?
Before we jump into the how-to, here are a few reasons why crafting your own wrapping paper bag is worth it:
1. Cost-Effective
Store-bought bags can get expensive, especially during holidays or special events. Making your own is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice style or quality.
2. Eco-Friendly
Repurposing leftover wrapping paper reduces waste and supports a more sustainable lifestyle. By reusing materials that might otherwise be thrown away, you’re making a small but meaningful contribution to the planet.
3. Creative and Personal
A wrapping paper bag is a canvas for your creativity. You can choose designs, colors, and decorations based on the recipient’s preferences or the event theme, making each bag one-of-a-kind.
Supplies You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Wrapping Paper: Choose a sturdy, thick design that complements your gift.
- Scissors: To cut the paper to size.
- Ruler: For precise measurements.
- Double-Sided Tape or Glue Stick: To secure the folds and seams neatly.
- Hole Punch: For creating holes for the handles.
- Ribbon, Twine, or Handles: For sturdy and stylish straps.
- Optional Decorations: Stickers, stamps, calligraphy pens, or even dried flowers for that extra special touch.
Tip: If you don’t already have wrapping paper, you can use kraft paper or even old maps, newspapers, or magazine pages for a rustic, upcycled look.
How to Make a Bag Out of Wrapping Paper
Choose the Right Wrapping Paper
- Select thicker wrapping paper for durability. Thin paper can tear easily, especially if the gift is heavy.
- Lay the gift on the paper and measure how much you’ll need. You’ll want enough to cover the gift on all sides with a little extra for folding and handling.
Create the Base
- Lay the wrapping paper flat on a clean surface. Fold the paper to form a rectangle or square, depending on the size of your gift. Make sure the edges overlap slightly.
- Use double-sided tape or glue stick to secure the overlapping edges.
- Fold one end of the rectangle upward to form the base of the bag. Then create triangular flaps by folding in each side of the bottom. Finally, fold the top and bottom edges toward the center of the base and secure them with tape or glue.
Form the Sides
- With the base complete, stand your bag upright.
- Create sharp creases along the sides by folding the edges inward to make a neat gusset. This step helps give the bag structure and shape.
Don’t worry if your folds aren’t perfect—any imperfections add character to your handmade creation!
Attach the Handles
There are two common methods for making handles:
- Ribbon or Twine Handles:
- Cardstock Handles:
- Stickers or Washi Tape for pops of color.
- Doodles or Calligraphy for a personal touch. Write the recipient’s name or add a heartfelt message.
- Ribbons or Bows for that extra flair.
- Themed Stamps to match the event (e.g., snowflakes for Christmas or hearts for Valentine’s Day).
Adjust your decorations to suit the occasion. For example, use pastel colors for a baby shower or metallic accents for a wedding.
Wrapping Paper Bag Ideas for Different Occasions
Need inspiration? Here are some ways to tailor your DIY bags for the event:
- Birthdays: Use vibrant, colorful paper with fun designs like balloons, stars, or confetti. Write the person’s name in bold calligraphy.
- Weddings: Stick to elegant, minimalist designs with muted tones like white, gold, or blush. Add dried flowers or lace ribbons for a romantic touch.
- Holidays: Get festive with Christmas-themed paper, topped with glittery bows or candy canes for decoration.
- Kid’s Parties: Use cartoon or superhero-themed paper. Attach a small toy or sticker sheet to the bag as an additional treat.
Tips for Success
Here are a few extra tips to help you nail your DIY bag project every time:
- Always measure your gift first to ensure the bag is the correct size.
- Double-check the sturdiness of your handles if you’re carrying heavier items.
- Keep your folds clean and sharp for a polished finish.
- Have fun experimenting with different paper designs and decorations!
