How to make a Paper Bag Scrapbook

The Grocery List
2-3 paper bags, any size
Cardstock
Scissors
Ribbon
Stapler
Ruler
Hole punch

Directions
When choosing the number of paper bags needed, you will need to know how many pages will be necessary to finish your project. With 2 paper bags, the scrapbook will have 8 pages and 4 pockets to decorate. If you choose 3 bags, you will have 12 pages and 6pockets to decorate. For the purpose of this instruction, I have chosen to use 2 paper bags.

First you will need to cut off the bottom of your paper bags. The easiest way is to leave your paper bag folded flat. Lift the bottom flap and then cut straight across the bag. You will do this to all of your paper bags making sure they are even.

Next you will individually fold each bag in half. Then set them on top of one another.

Use your hole punch to cut 3 holes down the left side of the book. (See the tips below for the easiest way to do this.)

Cut the ribbon into 3 strips about 5 inches long. Feed the ribbon through the holes and tie.

Now the real fun begins. Decorate your pages!


Paper Bag Album Tips
The Paper Bag Scrapbook is not acid free or lignin free. Keep in mind that the photographs stored in your paper bag scrapbook will fade. So you must take extra precautions to protect your photographs. Use copies of your photos, do not use your originals. Also do not use precious items, like ticket stubs, unless you have copied them as well.

If you want less side pockets, then don't cut off the ends of the bags. Some instructions call for alternating the bags before binding them together. This will result in having a side pocket every other page.

Add a poem to a side pocket if you are running short of photographs.

Instead of using a hole punch, use your eyelet setter.

For binding the album together use: eyelets, fancier fibers, brads, metal rings, staples or even use your sewing machine to stitch down the middle.

Use colored bags found in the craft aisle or in the gift bag section. Or use white paper bags found in the grocery store.

Use large grocery bags for a larger album.

Measure the side holes evenly with a ruler, then punch the holes. Then match up the second bag behind the first bag and mark where the holes should be punched.

Precut your cardstock or decorative paper to the same size to use as your background paper. Then go to town!

Use tags as a decorative part of the paper bag scrapbook. Use for journaling then thread ribbon or fibers through the top of the tag so that the fibers come out of the top of the album.

Choose your theme: summer vacation, birthday party, favorite pet, baby album or a cute brag book.

Staple ribbons to the side of your pages that will fit into the pocket. It makes for a cute touch.