How to Make Paper Bags

Making paper bags brings back fond memories of my grandfather, who used to make them by using old newspapers. Using paper bags makes sense as it is a small way by which you can contribute towards paper recycling. If you have small kids, involve them in this project too. Paper bags are a lot of fun to make and they can be used for filling return gifts for your kid's birthday party. You can be creative and use different types of colorful and patterned paper for making paper bags.

Making Paper Bags

To make a simple paper bag here are the materials that you will need.

• Chart Paper
• Strong Glue
• Scissors
• Ruler
• Thick thread
• Wrapping paper

Method

Cut the chart paper into a rectangular piece with the help of a pair of scissors and fold it by bringing the edges together. Now fold it again, thereby making four folds. With the help of a ruler, draw a slanting line from both the sides and cut through it. You will get a truncated triangular shape. On the broader side, fold an inch at the bottom of the paper. Unfold and make another one inch fold on the other side so that you get a zigzag pattern. Now place the unfolded chart paper on the reverse of the gift wrapping paper. Fold the excess of the gift wrapping paper on the inside of the chart paper and stick it with glue. Punch four holes on the top of the wrapping paper and insert thick threads through the holes.

Making Paper Bags from Newspaper

Here are the materials for making paper bags out of newspaper.

• 1 sheet of newspaper
• Homemade glue
• 1 strip of square card
• 2 pieces of string

Method

First make the glue by mixing 2 tablespoons of white flour with 4 tablespoons of water and heating it slightly until the mixture turns gooey and sticky. Now place the newspaper on a table and bring together the two edges of the newspaper so that it overlaps each other. Keep one edge an inch above the other and stick it with the glue. Now fold about 3 inches from the bottom of the newspaper and then open the corner edges so that they form a square shape. Now place the piece of cardboard and glue it. Let the glue dry and then flatten the bag carefully. With the help of a punch or a sharp instrument make to holes on each side of the top rim of the bag and then thread 2 strings through them. So, this is how you make paper bags at home.

Making a Paper Purse from a Paper Bag

Things required for making paper purse.

• Red paper bag
• Black card stock
• Black glitter
• Ruler
• Pair of scissors
• Pencil
• Glue

Method

Place the bag flat on a table, and measure down 5 inches on each side of the bag. Draw lines across the bag with the help of a ruler and then cut along this line and around the broader sides, but leave the back uncut. Fold the back of the bag to form a flap and fold it over the front. Make the folded flap rounded to give it a more finished look. On the black card stock, draw purse handles and then cut it out with scissors. Stick it on to the back of the purse. Decorate this beautiful and bright purse with glitter.

To give it a personal touch you can write a special quote or sketch a favorite cartoon on the paper bag. Use colorful markers and glitter pens to make it more jazzy and fun. You can also stick bits of lacy fabric or ribbons and bows to accentuate your quote or drawing. Add the handles to your paper bag by using ribbon, raffia, rope or cord. Don't forget to knot the handles securely on the inside of the bag. If you are not good at painting you can simply spray paint your bag for an easy and quick background color. Paper bags not only look chic, but they are eco-friendly too.