Paperbag Book How-To

Paperbag books are easy and fun to make. They can be as simple or as creatively embellished as you like. Fill the pages with photos, children’s drawings, stories or other memories, and don’t forget the pockets, too!

Supplies:
- paper bags – lunch size or a bit bigger – I used 4 inexpensive lunch bags
- ribbon or yarn – I used 3 colors of 1/4″ Offray polyester ribbon
- paper or cardstock – I used a selection of single-colored and decorative cardstock

Tools:
- hole punch
- scissors
- glue

Step 1: Assemble supplies and find a spot to work.

Step 2: Fold 4 paper bags in half, after figuring out which sides you want on the inside and which on the outside.

Step 3: Punch holes through each bag about 1/4″ from the edge, and spaced evenly (measure it or ‘eyeball’ it, if you like). I’ve done 4, but I think 5 might look nicer. Make sure to line up each subsequent bag with the first bag’s holes. When done, assemble the bags, being sure to match holes, in the order you’ve decided. I suggest alternating open and closed ends, and making sure you have a nice ‘cover’.

Step 4: Cut lengths of ribbon about 5-7″ long, at least 3 lengths of ribbon per hole. One by one, thread them through the holes and tie them in square knots. Alternately, instead of ribbon, you can use lengths of yarn tied into bows.

Ribbon tying completed.

Step 5: Fill the book. Cut paper or cardstock to fit pages and glue in. Decorate pages, add embellishments, stickers, photos, pictures, writings, memorabilia, whatever you like. Use the 4 pockets for extra memories, pictures, poetry, funny stories, etc.

Ready to add photos and pictures.