Tiny Gift Bags

It's been said that good things come in small packages, and I've got just the right sized package for some wonderful gift. One of the first things I learned to make when I became a SU! demonstrator fourteen years ago was a bag-a-lope. I was totally blown away that you could make a gift bag from a 10x13 envelope. How cool was that?! Fast-forward a bunch of years, and I'm making a little tiny version with a handle. And I still think they're cool!!

Stamps: A Cute Christmas stamp set and Christmas Chatter Jumbo Wheel

Cardstock: White Medium Envelope, Cherry Cobbler, Always Artichoke, and Whisper White cardstock with Jolly Holiday Designer Paper

Ink: Basic Black, Cherry Cobbler, Always Artichoke, and Basic Gray pads with Always Artichoke Marker

Accessories: Aqua Painter, Jumbo Handle, Old Olive 1/8" Taffeta Ribbon, 1 3/8" Circle Punch, Scallop Circle Punch, 1/8" Hole Punch, Tag Punch, White Gel Pen

Sure seems like a lot of materials to make a tiny gift bag, but it's well worth it. And while you've got everything out to make one, why not make several more? This little bag is perfect for a gift card, or why not tuck in one of our Simply Adorned Charms and Chain for a truly Stampin' Up! Christmas gift?

Since we don't have any Always Artichoke ribbon of this style, you can just make your own. I ran a line of Always Artichoke ink with a marker right over the center portion of the taffeta ribbon. So easy and you've got whatever color you need.

If you haven't made one of these little bags yet, it's very simple. Start with an envelope, seal it well - it helps to use SNAIL adhesive along the edges of the flap. Wheel or stamp your background design. Score along both sides and the bottom at 3/4". Punch down along one side edge with the Tag Punch in as far as you can. Slide it out partially to take out the rest of that side. Do this again on the other side so you've created the handle. Fold and crease the score lines with a bone folder. Then it's time to manipulate the sides and bottom to make it look like a paper grocery bag. Add any embellishments you like and you're almost done.

The last touch is the crinkle shreds for the bag. Can you believe it's just the kraft packing paper from your SU! order boxes? I folded several layers of paper and cut skinny strips. Then I crumpled them up in my hands really tight. Shake them loose a bit and stuff your bag. Fun!!

Hope you give this idea a try. You never know when you're going to need one of those tiny little gift bags for something special! Thanks for stopping by today.

Sharon