Old newspaper and magazines are abundant in many households. Repurpose both items into unique homemade gift bags. Customize each gift bag by adding ribbon, lace, cutouts, glitter and any other small craft adornment you may have in your craft box.
Things You’ll Need:
1 sheet of old newspaper and/or magazine page at least 7-inches square
Ruler
Pencil
Craft knife or scissors
White glue
14-inch piece of jute
Stapler
Staples
Instructions:
Step 1 – Open a sheet of newspaper and place it on a flat work surface or remove a page from a magazine along the spine and place it on a flat work surface.
Step 2 – Measure and mark and 7-inch square on the paper surface. I recommend a square the minimum of 7-inches but any size square will work.
Step 3 – Cut the square from the paper. Place the square on a flat work surface.
Step 4 – Match two opposite corners of the square. Crease along the fold line.
Step 5 – Position the triangle on a flat work surface so the folded edge is on the bottom. Fold the right point straight across the triangle stopping when the point meets the opposite edge. Crease along the fold line. Repeat the process with the left point.
Step 4 – Squeeze a drop of white glue on the inside or backside of each point. Press the points to the triangle to secure.
Step 5 – Separate the layers of paper at the top point. Fold the top layer of the front point down until the paper is flush with the top of the folded right and left point. Crease along the fold line. Glue the point to the side of the paper pouch to secure. Flip the paper pouch over and repeat the process on the back. Make sure the fold line is in the same location as on the front to create an even top rim to the gift bag. Allow the glue to dry completely before continuing.
Step 6 – Secure a piece of 14-inch jute to the outside two corners of the gift bag top to create a handle. Tie a knot approximately 1/2-inch from each end of the jute. Squeeze the edges of the pouch open. Slide the ends of the jute into the pouch so the knot is approximately 1/2-inch from the top edge. Place an end of the jute on each side of the pouch opening. Staple the jute to the gift bag just above the knots. Note: Alternative handle material includes a string of beads, ribbon, lace, pipe cleaners and so on.
Step 7 (Optional) – Decorate the outside of the gift bag if desired.
Tips: Decorate the homemade gift bags and use them for May Day treats.
