I’m so lucky, because I have a wonderful husband who loves me. I told him I needed paper bags, so he started setting them aside for me. Everything from food packaging to take out bags to shopping bags. Any paper bag would cut it, but I especially love the ones with handles. I was going to make junk journals out of them, or simply use them to paint on. But then I saw another artist decorating the bags on Instagram…with collage. I wish I could give credit where credit is due, but alas I don’t remember who she was. This is my spin on decorating eco gift bags!

First, put down a layer of white acrylic paint or gesso. I don’t use gesso often because of the fumes. Me and my clan are all super sensitive to fumes! I always use acrylic paint instead, and it usually turns out ok. Then paint a background. And once that is dry, use paint markers, alcohol markers, sharpies, or gel crayons to draw on the bag! You can collage, or do anything you want to. If you will be gifting the bag, make sure you seal the artwork to preserve the beauty.

Painting on alternative surfaces is a blast! And turning trash into treasure is another bit of fun!

Paint Eco Gift Bags