How to Make Folded Paper Gift Bags

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By kagee
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Making folded paper gift bags is an easy craft and a great way to recycle leftover wrapping paper. This paper craft is not hard, but does take a little patience to get the results you want.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Box the size you want the gift to be for a guide
Wrapping Paper
Hole punch
cording, raffia, or ribbon
double stick tape
scissors
cardboard

Step 1

Locate a box the correct size for your bag to create a folded paper gift It does not have to be empty because you are only using if for a guide.
Step 2

Cut your wrapping paper twice the length of your box with about 3 inches left at the top to fold later. There should be enough on the side to wrap as if it were a present. If necessary fold the side edges in slightly to make a cleaner edge.
Step 3

Lay the box on top of the wrapping paper. The wrapping paper should be facing pattern side down. Fold the wrapping paper over the bottom of the box and the top of the paper should be even.
Step 4

Fold the sides of the box as if you were wrapping a present and use the double sided tape to hold firmly. The top will remain open.
Step 5

Run your fingers over the edge of the box to crease. After creasing remove the box. Once again run your fingers over the creases to make the bag look like a box shape. You can continue to fold to make it look like a regular gift bag bought from the store.
Step 6

Using the left over 3 inches at the top of the bag, fold the top opening of the bag inward. This will make the bag more sturdy and keep the handle from ripping out. You may need the tape to hold it down securely.
Step 7

Punch two holes on each side of the bag about an inch from the top.
Step 8

Cut the cording your desired length and put one end through the punched hole. Tie a knot large enough to keep the cord from slipping out and then do the same with the other end. Repeat on the opposite side.
Step 9

Using the bottom edge of the same box use as a template to cut out a piece of cardboard or cardstock to place at the bottom of the bag to increase stability.
Step 10

Add the tissue paper and gift and you are ready.
Step 11

A second way to use the bag is to stop at step 6. Fold the bag as if it were a lunch bag. Punch two holes through the fold and use ribbon or raffia to go through one hole cross the back of the bag and then string back up to the top of the bag. Tie the ribbon at the front.