How to Make Wax Paper Bags

Tissue paper is impregnated and coated with paraffin to make wax paper.

Wax paper bags are an inexpensive, disposable option to safely contain and protect food and other items. Wax paper is biodegradable and is considered to be a more environmentally friendly option than plastic sandwich bags. Creating your own wax paper bags will allow you to customize their size to meet your needs. You can quickly cut and assemble a wax paper bag with common household items. Add a handmade touch to a lunchbox or picnic basket by making wax paper bags.

Things You'll Need

• Paper bag
• Razor blade
• Towel
• Double-sided tape

Instructions

1. Pull apart a single paper bag carefully to use as a pattern for the new wax paper bags. Use the razor blade to separate the adhesive if it does not easily pull apart.

2. Cover a hard, stable surface with a towel and center the flattened pattern bag on the towel.

3. Tear off one or two pieces of wax paper that are long enough to completely cover the pattern bag. Covering with more than two pieces of wax paper at the same time makes it too difficult to see the pattern bag when cutting.

4. Hold the wax paper firmly onto the pattern bag with one hand as you use the other to cut around the pattern with the razor blade.

5. Lift the wax paper cutout off the pattern and use small pieces of double-sided tape to assemble the base and side seams.

6. Use the bag as is or add folds and creases to imitate a more commercial look. Serrated fabric scissors work well to give the top of the wax paper bag the classic jagged edge.

Tips & Warnings

• Seal wax paper bags by folding over the open end and wrapping a rubber band around the bag to secure the fold.

References

• Better Homes & Gardens: Waxed Paper Wraps
• Reynold's Kitchen Products: Reynolds Cut-Rite Wax Paper