How to Make a Bag Out Of Wrapping Paper: A Full Guide

Wrapping gifts: an art form, a way to communicate care and creativity. But let's face it, sometimes the ideal box is only not within arm's reach. This is where the magic of turning wrapping paper into a gift bag becomes an integral factor. It's not only a smart hack for those minutes when you've run out of boxes. Today, we’ll teach you how to make a bag out of wrapping paper.

Creating a gift bag out of wrapping paper is not only resourceful but also adds a one-of-a-kind touch to your gift-giving. It's a strategy that mixes practicality with flair, making your gifts stand out with a personal and handmade charm. Besides, it's an eco-accommodating option that reuses and reuses, aligning impeccably with a more sustainable lifestyle. So, let’s get started with today’s lesson on how to make a bag out of wrapping paper in a few basic steps.

How to Make a Bag Out of Wrapping Paper

There are a few different strategies for making a gift bag out of wrapping paper, but a large portion of where the tutorials differ comes down to attaching the ribbon to the handle. In this tutorial, the TikToker utilizes hot glue to attach the ribbon and then adds a pom hat charm. But if you don't want to utilize hot glue to adhere the ribbon, there are other options.

Pick your wrapping paper

Selecting the right wrapping paper is the most vital phase in crafting your custom gift bag. Measure the size and length of your gift. The size of the paper is crucial. It should be about two times as wide as the ideal level of the bag. This allows ample space for folding and sealing. Consider the paper's plan and thickness, as a sturdier paper will create a more durable bag. If your gift is small, a standard-sized sheet will do the trick. 

For larger gifts, you may need to utilize a longer roll of paper. The decision of pattern and variety establishes the vibe for your gift, so pick something that mirrors the occasion or the beneficiary's taste. Whether it's a vibrant floral print for a birthday or a classic holiday pattern, the right wrapping paper can make your DIY gift bag genuinely special.

Fold and tape the sides to begin forming your gift bag.

Place your paper face down on your table. Fold the right and left sides in until they compromise and overlap some. Tape the seam.

This creates a seamless search for the outside of your bag. Secure the overlapping area with tape along the whole length. This step is crucial as it forms the base of your bag, providing a solid foundation for your gift. Guarantee the tape is applied flawlessly to avoid any knocks or gaps. This initial folding and taping lay the basis for the remainder of the bag's design, so take your chance to get it right.

Related: Gift Wrap Paper Bags

Fold the bottom.

Presently it's an opportunity to start forming the bottom of your gift bag. Fold the bottom of the wrapping paper up as high as you need to guarantee the bottom of the bag is sufficiently wide to hold your gift.

Fold your gift bag base into a triangular shape.

This is the trickiest step in how to make a bag out of paper, but I promise it's easy after you do it once! 

Create the sides

Once the base is formed, it's an opportunity to create the sides of your bag. With the seam you've quite recently taped facing down, fold in the sides of the paper. These folds determine the profundity of your bag, so adjust them according to how wide or narrow you want your bag to be. A larger fold creates more profundity, suitable for bulkier items, while a smaller fold is ideal for flatter gifts. 

Guarantee the folds are equal on the two sides for symmetry. It's about finding the right balance between form and function, ensuring your bag not only looks great but also holds up well.

Seal the bottom 

Sealing the bottom is a crucial step in ensuring your gift bag is solid. At the bag's bottom, open out the side folds to reveal a diamond shape made by the paper. Carefully fold the top and bottom points of this diamond to meet in the middle. Secure these with tape, creating a flat and strong base. 

This strategy successfully seals the bottom of your bag and gives a reliable foundation to your gift. Once taped, this sealed bottom should be able to help the heaviness of your gift, ensuring safe and stylish conveyance.

Gift Bag Wrapping Tips

To make sure that the gift bag you create holds up, remember these things.

  • Medium-weight wrapping paper is ideal because it's strong, but not difficult to fold.
  • Your bag should be two times as tall as it is wide.
  • These gift bags are not suggested for items that are very tall and/or heavy.
  • You can always add a piece of cardboard to the bottom of the bag to make it more strong.

If something feels unstable, add more tape!

Add solidarity to the base for added durability, especially for heavier gifts, reinforce the base of your bag. Cut a piece of cardboard to the size of the bag's bottom and place it inside. This extra layer offers help and maintains the bag's shape. The cardboard should fit cozily within the folds, not too close or too free. 

This basic addition can make a significant difference, especially if the bag will be carried or transported. It's a practical touch that doesn't compromise the aesthetic of your bag but guarantees it can hold your gift safely. Think of this cardboard base as the uncelebrated yet truly great individual of your DIY gift bag, discreetly providing strength and stability.

Punch holes for the ribbon

Utilize a hole punch to create two holes at the top of your bag, ensuring they align on the two sides. 

This step transforms your paper creation into a functional bag, ready to be filled with magnificent gifts. The placement and spacing of these holes are important for both the bag's functionality and its visual appeal, so take your opportunity to get them spot on.

From the top creating a neat top edge gives your gift bag a finished look. You can choose how wide this fold should be, but about an inch usually functions admirably. This fold not only adds to the bag's aesthetic but also gives a stronger edge to attaching the handles. 

Guarantee the fold is even all around for a symmetrical appearance. This step is about adding those final touches that elevate your bag from a piece of wrapping paper to a stylish, handcrafted gift carrier. It's these little details that show the care and thought put into your gift presentation.

Thread the ribbon 

Cut two lengths of ribbon for the handles. The ribbon tone can supplement or contrast with your wrapping paper, depending on your ideal look. Thread each ribbon through the holes on either side of the bag, tying a knot on the inside to get them. The length of the ribbon should be enough for comfortable carrying, but not so long that the bag hangs. 

These handles are not only practical but also add a decorative touch to your bag. They're the final step in transforming your wrapping paper into a beautiful, bespoke gift bag, ready to bring delight and surprise to its beneficiary.

Add decorative touches 

Now, it's the opportunity to personalize your gift bag. 

Whether it's a straightforward bow, a few sparkly stickers, or a hand-drawn plan, these touches make your bag one-of-a-kind. It's about adding that extra bit of affection and attention, showing the beneficiary that their gift is genuinely special. This step is where your creativity can shine, turning a basic bag into a show-stopper.

Finish and tape the bottom of your bag.

Last step! Fold the top and bottom corners of the triangular shape you formed toward each other to form a diamond and make creases. Tape all of the seams.

How to Make a Bag Out of Wrapping Paper Without Glue

If you don't want (or need) to add handles to your bag, the steps get a whole lot less complex. Instead of breaking out the hot glue gun or the hole-punch, repeat all of the above steps to fold your wrapping paper into a bag, then fold the top of the bag north of a few inches, add in your gift, and then tape it shut.

Conclusion: Gift Bag Decorating Ideas

Now that you've learned how to make a bag out of wrapping paper, it's an opportunity to decorate it! You can utilize fun ribbons, washi tape, letters, gift tags, candy, stickers, and even a lovely photo.

With this straightforward gift-wrapping idea, you'll want to purchase gifts for everyone! Look at our personalized gifts for that extra special touch - whether it be a special birthday, anniversary, or because you want to show your affection, there are options for any occasion.

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