Making Gift Bags From Wrapping Paper

By Kelly · Updated 2026-10-17

Creating custom gift bags from wrapping paper is a practical solution for awkwardly shaped items that do not fit standard boxes. This technique allows you to utilize high-quality paper patterns and textures that are often unavailable in pre-made bags. By following specific folding methods and reinforcing the structure, you can produce a sturdy, professional-looking gift container that coordinates perfectly with your other packages.

Supplies for Custom Gift Bag Construction

• Heavyweight wrapping paper (at least 60 lb weight is recommended for structural integrity)
• Double-sided adhesive tape or a permanent glue runner
• 1/4 inch standard hole punch
• Sharp craft scissors or a rolling paper trimmer
• Bone folder for crisp, professional creases
• 1/2 inch grosgrain or satin ribbon
• Heavy cardstock scraps (for base reinforcement)

Folding a Custom Flat-Bottom Bag

Adults · 15 min · under $1

• Sheet of 60 lb wrapping paper
• Double-sided tape runner
• Bone folder
• Craft scissors

1. Cut a rectangle of wrapping paper. The width should be twice the desired width of the bag plus 2 inches, and the height should be the desired height of the bag plus the depth of the base.
2. Lay the paper face down and fold the left and right sides toward the center so they overlap by 1 inch; apply double-sided tape along the entire seam and press firmly.
3. Fold the bottom edge up by 3 or 4 inches, depending on how deep you want the bag to be; use a bone folder to create a sharp crease.
4. Open the bottom fold and press the left and right corners inward to create two triangle shapes, then fold the top and bottom flaps of this section toward the center so they overlap.
5. Apply tape to the overlapping flaps to secure the bottom of the bag, ensuring there are no gaps where the gift could slip through.
6. Reach inside the bag to open the bottom and gently push the side creases outward to form a rectangular shape.

Adding Reinforced Ribbon Handles

Adults · 10 min · about $1

• Completed paper bag
• 1/2 inch grosgrain ribbon
• 1/4 inch hole punch
• Scraps of 65 lb white cardstock
• Glue stick

1. Fold the top 1.5 inches of the bag opening inside the bag to create a finished edge and provide a double layer of paper.
2. Cut two strips of cardstock measuring 1 inch by 5 inches and glue them to the inside top edge of the front and back panels to act as reinforcements.
3. Punch two holes through the paper and cardstock on the front panel, spaced approximately 3 inches apart.
4. Repeat the hole punching on the back panel, ensuring they align perfectly with the front holes.
5. Cut two 14-inch lengths of ribbon; thread each end through the holes from the outside and tie a double knot on the inside of the bag.
6. Seal the ends of synthetic ribbon with a small flame or fray check to prevent unraveling over time.

Techniques for Stability and Weight

For gifts like candles or jars, cut a piece of corrugated cardboard to the exact dimensions of the bag's bottom and place it inside. This prevents the paper from sagging and provides a flat surface for the gift to rest on.