Fabric Gift Bags - Alternative to Wrapping Paper

If you don't like luxurious throw-away wrapping papers, there are other unique alternatives that can also bring out the elegance, aesthetic and distinctive personal touch of gift-giving. One unconventional way of presenting a gift is by using fabric gift bags. They are not only reusable, they can also be made out of recycled materials and will also make wonderful gifts by themselves.

What you will need:

* Two pieces of fabric (organza fabric, linen, or whatever fabric you can use), cut to a desired size
* Two pieces of lining material (any fabric will do)
* Scissors
* Sewing needle, string or yarn
* Ruffled lace or plain ribbon

One thing about creating a fabric gift bag is that you can almost use any type of fabric, as long as the design fits the occasion, that is. If you don't have unused fabrics at home, try going to your local thrift shop or fabric shop and hunt for bargain sales. Select your favorite fabric design. Sometimes, fabrics that are up for discount have far more better design and are excellent for making fabric gift bags. You should also consider buying plain fabric as lining material for the inside of the bag. This would make it look richer and last longer.

Start by cutting 2 pieces of decorative fabric (for the gift bag) and two pieces of the lining material. They must all be uniform in size. A rectangular-shaped cut is the easiest form to make. However, don't be afraid to do a little experiment. If you are creative enough and would like a challenging job, you can pattern the gift bag for a particular shape, such as a teddy bear-shaped gift bag. For the purpose of simplicity, we will stick to a rectangular shape.

Place each of the decorative fabric piece right above each of the lining piece and fold over the top edges. Sew the folded top edges together to hem the opening edge of the gift bag.

Next, place together the two sets of fabric, with the decorative side facing each other on the inside and the lining facing outside making sure that the hemmed edges are both at the top. Sew the three remaining edges with hemming stitch technique or backstitch for added durability. Turn the bag inside out and place a ruffled lace or plain ribbon about 2-3 inches from the top. Stitch the ribbon in place and it's done. The bag is ready to use!