How to Make a Simple Paper Bag

Simple paper bags are very easy to make. All you need is some strong paper, like craft paper or wrapping paper, scissors, and white glue. For very strong bags you can double up the paper.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• strong paper, like craft paper or wrapping paper (how about recycling used gift wrappings?)
• scissors
• white glue

1. Cut a piece of paper about 3 x the width of your bag and add about 1" (2.5 cm) to the length. Place right side up on a table.

2. Glue short sides together to form a tube; let the paper overlap about 1" (2.5 cm). In the overlapping area, apply the glue (in squiggles or two parallel lines).

3. When the glue has dried, flatten the paper tube and gently crease the folds.

4. Now reverse one fold by pushing it towards the middle - between the two layers of paper. The edge of the paper will look zigzagged like an M or a W. Press down the new folds and crease.

5. Repeat with the other fold.

6. At the bottom edge, cut back about 1/2" (12 mm) of the top layer and the zigzag. The lower layer is now protruding.

7. Fold all layers about 1" (2.5 cm) from the edge and glue down - the former lower layer is now covering up the "seam" nice and flat.

Tips & Warnings

• You can decorate your bags any way you like: paint it, print it, glue paper or
• fabric ornaments onto it - think "scrapbook" and you'll get the idea.
• This is also a great, quick & cheap alternative to gift boxes!
• Caution: Be careful when handling paper. Paper edges can cut like razor blades. Wear protective gloves.

[Ladybugblue]

on 11/2/2009 Thanks for sharing! This is a great project for kids too!