How to Make Paper Bags Step By Step

Making your paper bags is a fun and creative hobby that also provides an environmentally friendly alternative to plastic bags. With a few simple materials and techniques, you can create custom paper bags for gifts, or for daily use. Follow this simple guide to create your paper bags from scratch, allowing you to show off your creativity while lowering the effects on the environment.

Materials needed
Craft or recycled paper

Tools required

ruler, pencil, scissors, or paper cutter, and glue or double-sided tape.

Steps:

• Measure and Cut the Paper: Calculate the size of your paper bag and cut a piece of craft paper to those measurements. A small paper bag usually sizes 8 by 10 inches.
• Fold the Paper in Half: Arrange the paper horizontally on an even surface and fold it lengthwise. Use a ruler to ensure that the fold is straight and folded neatly.
• Mark and fold the bottom flap: Make a small mark along the folded edge, about 2-3 inches from both ends of the paper. These markings show where you will fold the bag's bottom flap.
• Fold the Bottom Flap: Using the markers as a guide, fold the bottom border of the paper up to the center fold. Fold the fold well.
• Open up and flatten the bottom flap that you just folded. Then, flatten the corners by bringing the paper's side edges to the middle fold. This will result in two triangular flaps on either side.

• Fold and Glue the Bottom Flap: Fold the triangle flaps towards the center and fasten them with glue or double-sided tape. This is the bottom of the bag.
• Fold the Sides and Create Openings: After securing the bottom of the bag, fold the paper sides inside to form gaps. Your bag's breadth is determined by the width of its gaps.
• Secure the Sides with Glue or Tape: To secure the bag's form, apply glue or double-sided tape along one edge of the paper and push it firmly against the other. Repeat this process on the opposite side.
• Create Handles (Optional): Cut two pieces of paper and apply tape or glue them to the inside of the bag at the top edge.
• Decorate Your Bag (Optional): Personalize your paper bag by using stamps, stickers, ribbons, or drawings.

Your handcrafted paper bag is finished and ready for use! You may use it to give gifts, make lunches, and transport small goods. Try different paper colors and designs to make unique and stylish purses for any occasion.