Ready to make your gifts stand out this christmas? You do not need fancy supplies or special skills. You can use simple things you find around your home. You will love how easy it feels to add your personal touch. If you ever wondered how to decorate christmas gift bags, now is the perfect time to try. Let your imagination run wild and have fun with every bag you create!
Key Takeaways
- You can use things like brown paper bags, old ribbons, and buttons. These items help you make cool gift bags without spending a lot.
- Try eco-friendly choices by using fabric, kraft paper, or old newspapers. This helps you reuse things and cut down on waste.
- Make your gift bags special with handwritten notes or custom decorations. This makes each bag feel unique and personal.
- Let kids help decorate with easy crafts. Use safe things like markers and stickers. This is a fun activity for the whole family.
- Mix rustic and modern looks by using twine and pinecones. Add bright colors and shiny stickers for a cool style.
- Get your workspace ready by sorting supplies and cleaning up. This helps you decorate smoothly and have more fun.
- Try different ways to decorate, like stamping, drawing by hand, or using stencils. These techniques make your bags look creative.
- You can order custom gift bags if you want them to look professional. This lets you pick your own styles and add personal touches.
Supplies
Before you start decorating, you need to gather your supplies. You probably have many of these items at home already. If you want to get a little fancier, you can pick up a few things from your local craft store. You can also make your gift bags more eco-friendly by reusing or upcycling materials. Let’s break down your options.
Everyday Items
You do not have to spend a lot to make your Christmas gift bags look amazing. Check your kitchen drawers, craft box, or even your recycling bin. Here are some everyday items you can use:
- Brown paper bags (like the ones from the grocery store)
- String or twine
- Old ribbons from past gifts
- Tissue paper (even if it’s wrinkled)
- Card stock or construction paper
- Scissors and glue
- Markers, pens, or colored pencils
- Buttons, leftover fabric, or lace
- Old Christmas cards (cut out the pictures for decorations)
- Stickers or washi tape
You can mix and match these items to create a look that feels special and personal. Sometimes, the simplest things make the biggest impact.
Craft Store Finds
If you want to add a little extra sparkle, a quick trip to the craft store can help. Here’s a table showing some of the most popular craft materials for Christmas gift bag decoration right now:
| Craft Material | Why People Love It |
|---|---|
| Christmas bags | Paper bags are more popular than fabric for easy decorating. |
| Christmas wrapping paper | Pink and vintage styles are trending this year. |
| Christmas stickers | Quick way to add festive cheer. |
| Christmas tags | Printable tags let you personalize each gift. |
| Christmas party invitations | Great for themed gift sets. |
| Christmas postcards | Fun to tuck into a bag for a holiday greeting. |
| Christmas window clings | Add a playful touch to plain bags. |
| Advent calendar | Curated items make each day special. |
| Christmas Eve box | Customizable boxes are gaining popularity. |
You can use these craft supplies to make your bags stand out. Try mixing stickers, tags, and wrapping paper for a layered look.
Eco-Friendly Choices
You can help the planet while making your gifts look beautiful. Many people throw away a lot of wrapping paper and packaging during the holidays. In the U.S., the holiday season creates about 1 million extra tons of garbage, mostly from single-use gift wrap. Choosing reusable or recycled materials makes a big difference.
Here are some eco-friendly options you can try:
- Reusable fabric: Wrap your gifts in fabric for a unique look.
- Kraft paper: This paper is biodegradable and looks great with pinecones or dried orange slices.
- Newspaper: Old newspapers make creative and fun wrapping.
- Upcycled materials: Turn old t-shirts or fabric scraps into gift bags.
- Paper bags: Reuse grocery bags and decorate them however you like.
- Pinecones, dried plants, and small branches: Add a natural touch to your decorations.
Paper and canvas bags use more energy to make than plastic, but you can reuse them many times. This helps lower their impact on the environment. Plastic bags can take hundreds of years to break down, so choosing recyclable or reusable bags is a smart move.
Tip: Collect pinecones, dried flowers, or small branches from your yard or a park. These natural touches make your gift bags feel extra special and help you avoid waste.
With these supplies, you can create Christmas gift bags that look great and feel good to give.
How to Decorate Christmas Gift Bags
Decorating your own gift bags can feel like a fun holiday project. You do not need to be an expert to make every bag look special. If you want to know how to decorate christmas gift bags, you will find that the process is easy, creative, and rewarding. Let’s break it down step by step so you can get started right away.
Prep Bags
Before you dive into decorating, you need to get your bags ready. This step makes the rest of the process go smoothly.
Brown Paper Bags
Brown paper bags are a classic choice for diy gift bags. They are sturdy, easy to find, and give you a blank canvas for your ideas. Here’s how to prep them:
- Gather your materials. You will need brown paper bags, scissors, tape, a ruler, a pencil, and any decorations you want to use.
- Check the bag for any wrinkles or tears. Smooth out the surface so your decorations stick well.
- If you want to make your own bag, choose a strong wrapping paper. Fold the paper to create the base and sides, then secure the edges with tape. This gives you a custom size for any gift.
- Add a piece of cardboard to the bottom for extra support if your gift is heavy.
Tip: Brown paper bags look great with natural decorations like pinecones, twine, or dried orange slices.
Patterned Bags
Patterned bags can save you time and add instant style. You can still make them unique with a few diy touches.
- Choose a bag with a festive pattern that matches your theme.
- If the bag has a logo or writing, cover it with a piece of fabric or scrapbook paper. Cut the fabric to size, glue it over the writing, and add a ribbon or bow for a finished look.
- Try layering different papers or adding stickers to make the design pop.
If you want to upcycle an old bag, spray paint over any branding. Let it dry, then decorate with paper flowers, fabric shapes, or even a hand-drawn christmas tree.
Set Up Workspace
A tidy workspace helps you stay organized and makes decorating easy. Start by clearing off a table or desk. Sort your supplies so you can find what you need fast. If you have lots of bags, fold them flat and store them in a large bag or plastic container with dividers. You can also use an expandable file folder to keep tissue paper and gift bags sorted by color or size.
| Solution Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Hanging Swivel Storage | Rotating bin for wrapping paper and supplies, easy to access. |
| Wrapping Paper Storage Box | Fits under a bed or shelf, holds many rolls of paper. |
| Over-The-Door Pocket Organizer | Saves space and keeps supplies handy. |
| Expandable File Folders | Great for sorting bags and tissue paper by type or color. |
Note: Declutter before you start. Toss any damaged bags so you only keep what you can use.
Now you are ready to decorate!
Step-by-Step: How to Decorate Christmas Gift Bags
- Pick Your Bag
Choose a brown paper bag, a patterned bag, or make your own diy bag from wrapping paper or card stock. - Add Tissue Paper
Layer two or three sheets of tissue paper in colors that match your theme. Fold them accordion-style, then insert and fluff the edges so they spill out of the top. You can also crumple tissue paper for texture or twist the center to make a cone shape before tucking it in. - Tie Ribbons and Add Bells
Select a wired edge ribbon for easy shaping. Use ribbon scissors for clean cuts. Make a bow using a bow maker if you have one. Tie the bow around the bag’s handle or top. Slip a small jingle bell onto the ribbon for a festive touch. - Personalize with Decorations
Stick on some christmas stickers, add a handmade tag, or glue on cutouts from old cards. Try making a diy Christmas tree from fabric triangles or add buttons for a rustic look. - Upcycle Old Bags
Cover any writing or logos with fabric or scrapbook paper. Glue it down, then draw a present or tree on top. Add a ribbon bow and finish with sequins or sparkles if you want extra shine.
Easy diy tip: Use leftover fabric scraps to make birds or stars and glue them to your bag for a one-of-a-kind design.
Decorating gift bags does not have to be hard. With these simple steps, you can learn how to decorate christmas gift bags in a way that feels easy and fun. Try different styles, mix up your materials, and enjoy making each bag unique. You will love how your diy creations stand out under the tree!
DIY Holiday Gift Bags
Make Your Own
You can make diy holiday gift bags from scratch with just a few simple materials. Start with leftover wrapping paper or brown paper bags. These supplies give you a blank canvas for your creativity. Want to try something different? Use kraft colored lunch bags. They work great for small gifts and look charming with a little decoration.
Here are some fun ways to create your own diy gift bags:
- Fold wrapping paper into a bag shape and tape the edges.
- Paint the outside of a plain bag with acrylic paint or markers. Draw snowflakes, trees, or even your favorite holiday characters.
- Add glitter, stickers, or stamps for extra sparkle.
- Make origami bows or paper flowers and glue them on for a special touch.
Tip: Mix and match colors and patterns. You can make bags in any size or style you want!
Upcycle Old Bags
You do not need to buy new bags every year. Upcycling helps you save money and reduce waste. Grab old gift bags from past holidays or even shopping bags. Cover any logos or writing with scrapbook paper, fabric, or a big sticker. You can also spray paint the bag for a fresh look.
Try these ideas to upcycle bags:
- Glue on cutouts from old Christmas cards.
- Wrap the handles with yarn or ribbon.
- Add a handmade tag with the recipient’s name.
- Decorate with buttons, lace, or leftover fabric scraps.
You turn something old into something new and beautiful. Upcycled diy gift bags often become the most memorable ones under the tree.
Rustic and Modern Styles
You can choose a style that matches your holiday vibe. Rustic diy holiday gift bags look cozy and natural. Modern styles feel sleek and bright. Both are easy to make at home.
Rustic Style Ideas:
- Use kraft paper or brown bags.
- Tie with twine and tuck in a pinecone or dried orange slice.
- Stamp the bag with simple shapes like stars or trees.
Modern Style Ideas:
- Pick bold colors like pink, teal, or gold.
- Use metallic markers to draw geometric patterns.
- Add shiny stickers or a big, bright bow.
| Style | Materials | Decoration Ideas |
|---|---|---|
| Rustic | Kraft paper, twine | Pinecones, dried fruit, stamps |
| Modern | Bright paper, ribbon | Metallic pens, bold stickers |
You can mix rustic and modern touches for a look that is all your own. With diy holiday gift bags, you get to decide what feels right for your celebration.
Easy Decoration Ideas
Ribbons and Bows
You can never go wrong with ribbons and bows when you want easy diy ideas for your Christmas gift bags. Ribbons add instant charm and make any bag look festive. You might have some stock bows left from last year, or maybe you want to try grosgrain satin ribbons for a classic touch. Wired edge ribbons help you shape big, fluffy bows that stay in place. If you want something different, layer a few ribbons together or make a flower bow for a fun twist.
Here are some simple ways to use ribbons and bows:
- Tie a ribbon around the handle and let the ends dangle.
- Make a bow and attach it to the front of the bag with a dab of glue.
- Add a small bell to the ribbon for a cheerful jingle.
- Mix and match ribbon colors to match your holiday theme.
Tip: Wired edge ribbons are easy to shape and hold their form, so your bows always look neat.
Stamps and Stencils
Stamps and stencils give you easy ways to create simple designs on your diy Christmas bags. You do not need to be an artist to get great results. You can stamp a holiday message onto a piece of card, then glue it to the front of your bag. Try matting your stamped card onto patterned paper for extra style. If you like, fussy cut shapes like stockings or holly sprigs from scrapbook paper and stick them on with foam pads for a 3D effect.
Some easy techniques for stamps and stencils:
- Hold the stamp in your hand and gently press the ink pad onto it. This keeps your designs crisp and smudge-free.
- Use precision scissors and turn the cardstock, not the scissors, for neat fussy cutting.
- Clean your stamps with a baby wipe when you finish.
- Dip a Q-Tip in paint to make tiny dots or snowflakes on your bag.
Note: Stamps and stencils work well for both rustic and modern diy ideas. You can make every bag unique with just a few simple touches.
Hand-Drawn Art
Hand-drawn art lets you add a personal touch to your diy holiday gift bags. You do not need fancy skills—just grab some markers, colored pencils, or gel pens. Draw simple designs like stars, trees, or snowmen. If you want, sketch a border around the edge of the bag or doodle tiny presents and candy canes.
Here are some easy ideas to try:
- Draw a big Christmas tree and decorate it with stickers or dots of paint.
- Write a holiday greeting in your own handwriting.
- Add simple patterns like stripes or polka dots for a playful look.
Hand-drawn art makes your gift bags feel extra special. Kids love to help with this step, and you get to show off your creativity. These diy touches turn even the simplest bag into a holiday keepsake.
Natural Touches
You can bring a bit of the outdoors inside with natural touches on your Christmas gift bags. These easy ideas make your gifts feel warm and special. Nature gives you so many simple materials to work with, and you do not need to spend much to get a beautiful look.
Start with kraft paper as your base. It has a rustic feel and works well for layering. You can wrap your bag or use it as a canvas for other decorations. Natural twine is another favorite. It ties up your bag in a snap and looks great with kraft paper. You can even use it instead of synthetic ribbons for a more eco-friendly touch.
Botanical accents add a festive spirit to your diy bags. Try tucking in dried flowers, pine cones, or even a sprig of pine tree. These easy decorations give your gift bags a cozy, holiday look. If you want to get creative, use fabric scraps for furoshiki wrapping. This Japanese method lets you wrap gifts in cloth, which cuts down on waste and adds a handmade touch.
Here’s a quick table to help you pick the best natural materials for your Christmas bags:
| Material | Description |
|---|---|
| Kraft Paper | A rustic foundation for layering with ribbon or botanical touches, made from recycled content. |
| Natural Twine | A clever alternative to synthetic ribbons, pairs well with kraft paper and adds a rustic layer. |
| Botanical Accents | Dried flowers or pine cones that elevate wrapping and add a warm, festive spirit. |
| Fabric Scraps | Used in furoshiki wrapping, minimizes waste and adds artisanal beauty to gifts. |
You can also try these easy ideas:
- Use muslin bags as a blank slate. Stamp or draw simple holiday shapes for a custom look.
- Shape burlap into pouches. Tie them with twine and add a pinecone for a rustic finish.
- Tuck pine tree sprigs or small flowers under the ribbon for a fresh, natural vibe.
Tip: Collect pinecones or small branches from your yard. Let them dry before adding them to your diy gift bags. This keeps your decorations looking neat and lasting longer.
Natural touches work for any style. You can go for a classic Christmas look or try something modern. These easy ideas help you create gift bags that stand out. You do not need fancy supplies—just a few simple items from nature and a little creativity. Your friends and family will love the extra effort and the unique feel of your holiday gifts.
Decorating with Kids
Decorating gift bags with kids is a fun way to spend time together. You get to see their ideas and make special holiday bags. Everyone can make a bag that is unique for the season. There are many ways to keep this activity safe and full of smiles.
Simple Projects
Kids like projects that are quick and easy. You can set up simple crafts for all ages. Try making a Santa bag with a mini tote. Use black duct tape for the belt. Cut gold craft foam for the buckle. Add white fur trim and buttons for detail. For a winter look, use blue or white fur trim. Fill the bag with small winter gifts. These crafts need only basic supplies and some imagination.
Here are more easy ideas:
- Use sponges shaped like stars or trees. Dip them in paint and press on the bag for patterns.
- Let kids draw snowflakes or candy canes with markers.
- Glue sequins or sparkles for extra shine.
- Write each person’s name on the bag to make it special.
Tip: Keep a damp paper towel close for quick cleanups. This makes the activity less messy and more fun.
Safe Materials
Safety is important when crafting with kids. Pick materials that are non-toxic and easy to use. You can find safe supplies at home or in craft stores.
| Material | Description |
|---|---|
| Red and green tissue paper | Good for decorating and safe to use |
| School Glue | Non-toxic glue for crafts |
| Craft Glue | Another safe glue option |
| Hole Punch | Makes holes in bags |
| Ribbon for Handles | Decorative and safe for kids |
You can also use poster paints, smooth markers, and blank gift tags. Soft paint brushes work best for small hands. Always have paper towels and water ready for cleaning. These supplies help keep crafts safe and easy to clean up.
Family Fun
Decorating together helps families feel closer. You can make this a yearly tradition. Try painting together so everyone adds their own art to one bag. Use tempera paint for bright colors that wash off easily. Washi tape and glitter glue add sparkle with little mess. Rubber stamps and cookie cutters make cool shapes and patterns.
Here are some fun things to try:
- Stamp designs with Christmas sponges.
- Make handprints on bags for a personal touch.
- Add sequins and glitter for extra sparkle.
- Write names or holiday messages to finish each bag.
| Activity/Material | Description |
|---|---|
| Tempera paint | Bright colors and easy to wash off hands. |
| Washi tape | Adds fun decoration to bags. |
| Glitter glue | Makes bags sparkle and look festive. |
| Rubber stamps | Lets you stamp creative designs on bags. |
| Cookie cutters | Use as stampers for clear shapes. |
| Sequins / sparkles | Adds extra shine and color. |
| Recycled craft or white bags | Cheap and good for the environment. |
| Collaborative painting | Painting together is fun and helps everyone be creative. |
Decorating gift bags as a family makes the holidays feel even more special. You get to laugh, share ideas, and make crafts everyone will remember. These moments turn a simple project into a family tradition.
Finishing Touches
Neatness Tips
You want your gift bags to look neat and polished, right? Here’s a simple way to keep your designs tidy and eye-catching:
- Lightly sketch your pattern on the bag with a pencil first. This helps you plan your design and avoid mistakes.
- Outline your sketches with a black fineliner. This makes your art pop and keeps lines crisp.
- Add color using brush pens. You can blend colors or keep it bold and bright.
- Use a pastel pen for highlights. This step adds a soft glow to your design.
- Finish with colored crêpe paper for texture and a festive touch.
Tip: Take your time with each step. Working slowly helps you avoid smudges and keeps your bag looking sharp.
Secure Decorations
You want your decorations to stay put, even if the bag gets jostled under the tree. The best way to attach decorations depends on your bag and what you’re adding. Here’s a quick guide:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Paper Clips | Bend into small hooks to hang ornaments; lightweight and non-damaging. |
| Hair Ties/Elastics | Stretchy loops, perfect for wider handles. |
| Ribbon or String | Looks pretty and can match your bag’s colors. |
| Safety Pins | Great for fabric bags, leaves only a tiny hole. |
Follow these steps for extra security:
- Check your bag’s material and strength before choosing how to attach things.
- Pick a loop or holder that fits the handle and won’t damage the bag.
- Thread your decoration through the loop, then tie or clip it onto the handle.
- Hide the attachment point with a bow or ribbon for a finished look.
- Gently shake or lift the bag to make sure everything stays in place.
Note: Testing your bag before gifting helps you avoid last-minute surprises.
Packing Gifts
Packing your gifts the right way keeps them safe and makes opening them more fun. Gift bags are a great choice for travel and busy holiday events. They protect your presents and make them easy to access.
- Use decorative gift bags instead of wrapping paper. This makes gifts easier to open and keeps them safe during travel.
- Gift bags let you see what’s inside, which helps if you need to show your gifts at airport security.
- You won’t have to unwrap and rewrap gifts at checkpoints, saving you time and hassle.
Tip: Add tissue paper or crumpled paper at the bottom of the bag. This cushions your gift and keeps it from moving around.
With these finishing touches, your christmas gift bags will look amazing and keep your presents safe. You can feel proud of your simple, creative work and enjoy sharing the holiday spirit with everyone.
Custom DIY Gift Bags
Personal Touches
You can make your gift bags feel special with personal touches. Start with easy ideas that show you care. Write a message on the bag using a calligraphy pen. Your own handwriting makes the gift unique. Try heat transfer vinyl for bold designs. Iron on names, shapes, or greetings for a cool effect. Add small charms or stickers for extra fun. Choose ones that fit the occasion or the person’s hobbies.
Here’s a table with creative ways to make your DIY gift bags personal:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV) | Iron on custom designs for a professional look. |
| Handwritten Messages | Use calligraphy pens for heartfelt notes. |
| Decorative Elements | Add charms or stickers for a playful touch. |
You can also:
- Use different materials to make each bag unique.
- Emboss the edges with a machine for a fancy look.
- Stamp names on tags so everyone knows their gift.
Tip: Adding personal touches turns a simple bag into something your friends and family will remember.
Themed Bags
Themed bags help your gifts stand out. Pick a style that matches your party or the person you are giving it to. Some popular themes are nutcracker designs, PEANUTS® characters, and rustic tree patterns. Santa’s helpers and modern prints are also favorites. You can buy tote bags with these themes or decorate plain bags to match.
Try these ideas for themed bags:
- Draw or stamp nutcracker figures for a classic style.
- Use stickers with PEANUTS® characters for a fun look.
- Pick red and grey tree patterns for a cozy, rustic feel.
- Add ribbons and tags that match your theme.
Note: Themed bags help make your Christmas party feel more fun and festive.
Custom Orders
If you want something really special, At INITI Bag, we are a professional manufacturer offering custom gift bags tailored to meet your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for bulk orders for retail, corporate gifting, or special events, we provide OEM and ODM services to bring your vision to life.
We offer an extensive range of materials and styles for your custom gift bags. Choose from options like cardboard, kraft paper, corrugated paper, canvas, cotton, non-woven fabric, jute, hemp, PVC, polyester, mesh drawstring bags, and many more. With such a wide selection, you can find the perfect material that fits your brand’s image and needs.
From gift bags with handles, gable bags, and bags with ribbons and tags, we can customize every aspect of your packaging. We also offer die cutting, gluing, embossing, and other creative features. For those seeking sustainability, we provide eco-friendly options such as recycled materials, biodegradable packaging, and options that are fully recyclable.
Here’s a quick look at what you can get:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Styles | Gift packs, gable bags, packaging with ribbons and tags |
| Materials | Cardboard, kraft, corrugated paper, canvas, cotton, non-woven fabric, jute, hemp, PVC, polyester, mesh drawstring bags, and more |
| Customization Options | Die cutting, gluing, eco-friendly, recycled, biodegradable |
| Turnaround Time | 7–30 business days, rush available |
| Printing Methods | Offset, digital printing |
| Benefits | Reusable, durable, affordable, easy to personalize |
Contact us today to discuss your custom gift bag needs! As a trusted manufacturer, we specialize in bulk orders, high-quality craftsmanship, and delivering your exact specifications. Let us help you create the perfect packaging solution that will leave a lasting impression on your customers.
Callout: Custom DIY gift bags let you show your creativity and make every present feel special.
Conclusion
Decorating Christmas gift bags with simple things is easy and fun. You can make plain gifts look special with just a few steps. Adding your own style makes the gift feel more thoughtful. This shows you care and put in effort. Personal touches help people feel closer and make gifts more valuable. Look at this table to see why personalized gifts matter:
| How Personalization Boosts Gifts | Source |
|---|---|
| Gifts with personal touches build emotional bonds and increase value. | EM Lyon |
| Recipients cherish personalized gifts and keep them longer. | SAGE Journals |
Try these tips to help your gifts stand out. Your ideas and hard work make gifts unforgettable. Want something even more special? Check out custom gift bag choices or ask for help with personal designs.
FAQ
How do I start decorating Christmas gift bags if I have never done it before?
You can follow a simple tutorial. Gather your supplies and pick a bag. Try easy ideas like ribbons or stickers. You do not need special skills. Just have fun and let your creativity shine.
What materials work best for making DIY gift bags from any paper?
You can use wrapping paper, brown paper, or even newspaper. A good tutorial will show you how to fold and tape the paper. You can make diy gift bags from any paper you have at home.
Can I decorate gift bags with kids?
Yes! Kids love crafts. Pick a tutorial with simple steps. Use safe materials like markers, glue, and stickers. Let kids draw or stamp their own designs. This makes the project fun for everyone.
How do I make my gift bags look neat and professional?
Follow a step-by-step tutorial. Sketch your design first. Use clean cuts and glue decorations carefully. Add a bow or tag for a polished finish. Take your time and check your work as you go.
What are some eco-friendly ways to decorate Christmas gift bags?
You can reuse old bags or make diy gift bags from any paper. Add natural touches like pinecones or twine. Look for a tutorial that uses recycled materials. This helps the planet and looks great.
Do I need special tools for these tutorials?
No, you do not need fancy tools. Most tutorials use scissors, glue, and tape. You can find these at home. Some tutorials suggest extras like stamps or ribbons, but you can skip them if you want.
How can I personalize my gift bags?
Write the recipient’s name or a message. Try a tutorial that shows how to add photos or hand-drawn art. Use stickers, charms, or themed tags. Personal touches make your gift stand out.
Where can I find more tutorials for Christmas gift bag decorating?
You can search online for a tutorial. Many blogs and videos show how to make diy gift bags from any paper. Look for step-by-step guides with pictures. You will find lots of creative ideas.
