Creating paper bag snowflakes is a wonderful way to bring the magic of winter into your home while upcycling brown paper bags into beautiful decorations. This simple and engaging craft can be a delightful activity for both kids and adults alike. With just nine paper bags and a few basic tools, you can transform these humble materials into stunning snowflake ornaments that will add a charming touch to your seasonal decor.
For added fun, use white paper bags instead of brown ones.
Materials Needed to make paper bag snowflakes:
Nine Paper Bags: Ensure they are all the same size and in good condition.
Scissors: Sharp and precise scissors will make cutting easier.
Hot Glue Gun with extra Glue Sticks: To glue the bags together.
String or Ribbon: For hanging the finished snowflakes if desired.
Pen or Pencil: To trace your patterns.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preparation
Gather Materials: Organize the brown paper bags, scissors, hot glue gun, extra glue sticks, and string, yarn, or ribbon.
Work Area: Set up a clean and spacious workspace where you can comfortably cut and assemble the snowflakes. Cover your workspace if you are worried about getting glue on it.
Step 2: Securing the Paper Bags Together
Flatten Bags: Lay out each brown paper bag flat on the table, smoothing out any wrinkles or creases.
Separate the stack of bags into two stacks. One stack of 4 bags and the other of 5 bags.
Take your first bag and lay it down with the flap against the table (underneath). Using your hot glue gun, glue in an upside-down "T" so that you glue down the center and across the bottom.
Carefully stack the second bag on top until you have four bags glued together.
Repeat the process for the other 5 bags so that you end up with two smaller stacks of bags.
Step 3: Cutting Snowflake Patterns
Design: Begin cutting out snowflake patterns along the folded edges of the paper bags. Make sure you start above the bottom flap of each bag, meaning the bottom 1/3 (ish) of the bags will not be cut.
I like to begin with cuts at the top and then down the sides.
Between each cut leave space where the bag has sides so that the snowflake stays together.
You can create simple triangular shapes or intricate designs by cutting out various shapes like triangles, curves, or small circles. Be creative!
Once you have the first stack of bags cut, trace the design on the second set of bags and cut it out to match. They do not have to be perfect, but close is good.
Once you have the design cut out of both stacks of paper bags, glue the stacks together using the same "T" process as before, lining up the pattern as closely as possible.
Step 4: Assembly and Hanger
Once the glue is dry carefully unfold the snowflake and make sure your tops are not stuck together with glue. Once you know it will open and reveal the beautiful design it is time to secure it open and add the string to hang it.
Secure the two ends of the snowflake together with hot glue in the same "T" gluing process. In addition, at the top where the snowflakes come together add some extra glue to create a solid place to secure your string for hanging.
If you wish to hang the snowflakes, cut a slit in the glob of glue at the top of the snowflakes where the sides were secured together.
Cut a double length of string and loop it, tying a knot at the top.
Take the looped end of the string and pass it through the cut in the snowflake and put the tied end through the loop so it secures around the snowflake point.
Find a perfect spot to display your paper bag snowflakes—windows, walls, or even as part of a seasonal garland.
Creating paper bag snowflakes is a delightful and eco-friendly way to embrace the beauty of winter while repurposing everyday materials. Whether you're looking for a fun family activity or a creative way to decorate your space, these handmade snowflakes are sure to bring a touch of charm to your home during the snowy season. Experiment with different designs, sizes, and decorations to make each snowflake truly unique. Also, try white paper bags to give them an authentic snowflake feel. Finally, hang them in front of twinkle lights and watch them glow.
