Using Up and Recycling Envelopes

 Hi Crafters

As anyone who has crafted for a year or more will know we often end up with spare envelopes from card sets and they seem to multiply easily, so that when we clean the craft boxes there is a bag of different size envelopes going spare. Whenever possible I make gift bags from them. This way I not only use up the envelopes but also scraps of card or in this case the front of pretty Christmas cards. The bags can then be used for personalizing your gifts or promoting your makes at a craft show. 

The card on the front of this bag was a card made from a watercolour painted by the friend who sent it, so it is lovely to be able to recycle it. 

WHen I take down my Christmas cards I start by sorting them into sizes, and removing any embellishments that can be used on other projects.

I then go through my pile of spare envelopes and taking the largest ones out first, I start by making sure the flap is sealed down and then cutting a tiny strip off the top of the envelope to open it up again. Next I score an inch on both sides and along the base to form the bag gusset.  Place your hand in the open envelope and put your finger into the corner and fold the corner diagonally so it sits straight at the base of the bag. 

Fold the score lines so that the gusset is formed. Tuck over the top and glue down the small flap inside the bag, and glue the corner base flaps at the same time  

Then take your card and allowing a frame all around the card cut it to fit into the panel inside the score lines. GLue that to the front of the bag. Using a hole punch place the bag together and punch holes near the top of the bag for the handles. Add string or ribbon to make your handle. 

You can make up bags throughout the year using recycled envelopes and pieces of your scrap card. 

Back soon with more Recycling ideas for your Christmas cards. 

Dee