Gift Bags with Newspaper Print...Say, what?!

To make a sturdier bag, I used two layers of newsprint.

1. Use two full section-sized pieces of paper...measurements at approximately 11" x 23." 

2. Measure out 1" from what you want to be the top of the bag (make sure the print you want on the outside is on the bottom) and measure out 3" from the bottom of the bag. Fold at these 1" and 3" marks.

3. Next, measure from the left to right side (length-wise) in the following segments: 6," 4," 6," and 4"....whatever is left is fine (I had about 2 1/2" leftover). Fold at these marks. the 4" sections will make up the sides of the bag while the 6" sections will be the front and backs of the bag.

4. You should be able to clearly view all your fold marks. With both layers matched up, put glue on the little (on mine 2 1/2 ") flap left over at the end of your 6" and 4" measurements. Bring the other side around, lining it up with the fold at the 2 1/2" mark...you should have now created a cylindar.

5. Next, with the bottom, or 3" fold facing you, fold in the short sides till the 3" mark....it should look like you're wrapping a present.

Place glue on the triangular portions you've now created (I used glue stick) and glue up against the bottom of the bag. I pressed from the inside of the bag to make the adhesive more secure.

6. Your bag is almost complete! Gently holding the bag by the sides, begin the create the folds for the sides of the the bag that will allow it to fold up flat...this worked fairly naturally for me, the paper seemed to know where to fold...I just guided. Then press all the fold flat to create good creases.

7. Finishing touches! Punch holes where you'd like your handles to be. Cut your handles for string or ribbon or yarn you want to use (I cut ming about 14" long). String the handles throught the punched holes and tie knots on the inside.

Finally, cut a piece of cardboard or cardstock approximately 4" by 6" to place in the bottom of the bag to reinforce it. I used part of a cereal box. Place the insert in the bottom or your bag and you're done! Your bag should now measure about 7" tall, 6" wide, and 4" deep! Happy gifting :)