Paper Bag Books by Jill-Marie

Paper Bag books have become a real craze and it is easy to see why. They are small, compact and extremely versatile. They are easy and fun to decorate and can incorporate virtually any style form cute-sy to vintage.

They are also a great way to use up odd sizes of papers as well as odds and ends of ephemera.

I usually start out with a minimum of 4 bags which will give you a total of 14 inside pages, as well as a front and back. ( Picture 1
)

I have included in the pictures different binding methods, although I prefer using brads myself, as I am an embellishment freak and the brads make me feel like it is very sturdy. It is probably an illusion, but what can I say.

Take your bags and lay them with the closed (bottom) and open (tops) ends alternating. I prefer having my closed end as my cover, again for a little more durability. Picture 2

Once you have sewn your seam, decide which binding method you prefer. When I use brads Picture 3
, I always put my decorative paper on the front first and my brad heads on the outside so my brads show. I then push them flat on the back and cover that with the coordinating decorative paper.

If you use binder rings or ribbon, and want that finished look, add your decorative paper before punching holes as well.

You can play around with each method until you find one that works best for you.

So, now you have your book and guess what? The fun begins. Decorate until your hearts content!

I told you it was easy!

You will soon be making these as gifts for your friends for every occasion. They are great wedding and baby souvenirs as well as a super mini scrapbook for any holiday. Grandmas love them as they can carry them in their bags to show off!

The open ends make great stash areas, and I usually do loads of journaling on coordinating tags to stuff inside. You are only limited by your imagination, so let loose and enjoy!

Finished Samples

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