How to Sew Paper Gift Bags + Gift Card Holders

Out of gift wrap? Create custom, charming packages on the fly with recycled paper, a needle and some thread!

Gift wrapping doesn't need to cost you extra. Use leftover craft paper, paper bags and cardstock to create custom gift bags you can hand sew or stitch together on a sewing machine!

Sewn Paper Gift Wrapping and Decor

Photo by: Debbie Wolfe

Debbie Wolfe

Materials

  • sewing machine
  • colorful or metallic thread
  • leftover card stock
  • craft paper or paper bag
  • craft punch
  • ruler

DIY Gift Card Holder

Cut a piece craft paper into a rectangle.

Sewn Paper Gift Wrapping and Decor

Photo by: Debbie Wolfe

Debbie Wolfe

Fold the rectangular paper in half, hotdog style, but do not crease. Use a ruler to measure out a triangular corner on one end. Keeping the paper folded, snip off the triangle piece. The paper should resemble a tall house when unfolded.

Sewn Paper Gift Wrapping and Decor

Photo by: Debbie Wolfe

Debbie Wolfe

Open up the paper and fold in half hamburger style, bringing the straight edge (bottom) of the piece to just below the base of the triangle at the top. 

Sewn Paper Gift Wrapping and Decor

Photo by: Debbie Wolfe

Debbie Wolfe

Hand sew or stitch down the sides of the envelope with a sewing machine. Insert a gift card and use festive washi tape to hold the flap closed. 

Sewn Paper Gift Wrapping and Decor

Photo by: Debbie Wolfe

Debbie Wolfe

DIY Gift Bags

This is a versatile way to create a gift bag in any size. Start by cutting a piece of craft paper into a rectangle, then fold it in half, hamburger style.

Sewn Paper Gift Wrapping and Decor

Photo by: Debbie Wolfe

Debbie Wolfe

Stitch up the sides of the folded paper, leaving the top open. Fold the top about four inches down, then punch two holes about an inch apart in the center of the flap (for ribbon).

Sewn Paper Gift Wrapping and Decor

Photo by: Debbie Wolfe

Debbie Wolfe

Put the gift in the bag, then thread ribbon through the holes and tie a bow. 

Sewn Paper Gift Wrapping and Decor

Photo by: Debbie Wolfe

Debbie Wolfe

Charming Paper Garland

Use this simple paper garland to dress up a gift or add festive glam to your holiday home. Start by punching a bunch of large circular holes in craft paper.

Sewn Paper Gift Wrapping and Decor

Photo by: Debbie Wolfe

Debbie Wolfe

To sew the garland, place the holes side by side and sew down the middle of each circle. Keep adding circles until you reach the desired size.

Sewn Paper Gift Wrapping and Decor

Photo by: Debbie Wolfe

Debbie Wolfe

Wrap a gift with the garland or hang it on the Christmas tree!

Sewn Paper Gift Wrapping and Decor

Photo by: Debbie Wolfe

Debbie Wolfe

Add hand-drawn elements to the paper wrap with markers or stamps for a thoughtful, stylish presentation. 

Sewn Paper Gift Wrapping and Decor

Photo by: Debbie Wolfe

Debbie Wolfe

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