How to Decoupage a Gift Bag

Gift bags come in a variety of sizes, from miniature bags just right for holding that special selection of jewelry, to giant bags for items too big to cover with paper. The idea behind the bag, of course, is to conceal the contents until it's gift opening time. At least that's the idea behind most gift bags. This decoupage gift bag is designed as part of the gift itself as it is customized to either provide hints to the contents or to express the personality of the recipient. Which it does is up to you, as you create a special decoupage gift bag for someone you love.

Things You'll Need

• Plain paper gift bag
• Old magazines
• Old newspapers
• White glue
• Clear acrylic spray

Instructions

1. Decide whether you would like to create a bag to reflect the style and personality of the recipient or a mysterious bag that provides hints to what lies inside. The mystery bag will work well if the gift inside is something that the recipient would never guess on their own.

2. Look through old magazines and newspapers for pictures or words that will provide hints to its contents. Think outside the box here and give unusual clues that just might lead the guesser astray. Try to give subtle hints that could be interpreted in more than one way. If the hints are too obvious, it will take away from the suspense.

3. Pay close attention to advertisements. These use catchy phrases and vivid imagery. If you can't find just the right word, cut out individual letters and spell it out with them. Cut out individual words to create longer phrases. You can even print out a verse in your favorite font on the computer and decoupage them onto the bag.

4. Apply white glue to the back of the images and begin gluing in place on the bag. Images make up the background and words and phrases will be decoupaged over them. Once the bag is covered with a selection of images, begin adding words. Leave the most important phrases or clues you want to emphasize until last and glue them in a prominent area on the bag.

5. Allow the decoupaged images to dry completely and spray with clear acrylic spray to seal and protect the surface. Follow the same procedure to create a bag designed to reflect the personality of the recipient. Select images, words, and phrases that remind you of the style of the recipient.