Good Things Come In Small Packages!

by Joanne Banko - Brother Brand Ambassador

Could you use a few quick gift bag ideas? If the answer is yes, this post is here to help you stitch a few quick and easy projects. Previously posted on the Brother blog, note that these all fit into the "easy" category and are made from low cost, readily available materials. I created some of these for an embroidery machine, while others require only simple stitches on your sewing machine. First, I'll share the newest one with you.

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Embroidered In-the-Hoop Mini Gift Bag

This little bag is currently featured on the official Brother blog. Made from inexpensive felt with a free embroidery design for you to download, be sure to snatch the free design before December 31, 2021. Click on the above image of the bag to view and download the written instructions. Below, you'll find a recent video where I demonstrate the steps for making this bag during a Brother live show broadcast on YouTube and Facebook.

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Confetti Gift Bag

The next little bag is one of my favorites. Instructions call for small bits of fabric to make confetti and the bag itself is made from commonly found polyester organza. 

Look for multiple colors of this organza in the specialty fabric section of your favorite store. You could also consider substituting bridal tulle or netting if your intended gift will work in a bag of this type. Click on the above image to view and download written instructions. 

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From Our House To Yours Gift Bag

This bag is one of my all time favorites. It takes a bit longer to make but is truly a gift in and of itself, one that will likely be kept and put on display. Add the family name to the roof for a fun custom touch!

In this project you'll learn some neat ways to use Frame Shapes included in the embroidery menu on all Brother embroidery machines. You only need a 4-inch hoop for this project! If you don't have an embroidery machine consider cutting appliqué shapes that mimic the ones you see here and add buttons or trim to accent the shapes. Click on the above image to view and download written instructions for the bag. 

You won't find the wreath design in the instruction file, so you'll need to download the design separately HERE.

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Fat Quarter Friendly
​Fabric Bag with Pearl Trim

Sew up this bag with festive fabric and add some trim for a quick and easy last minute gift package. Instructions call for a special pearl sewing foot to apply craft pearls found on a string. You can skip this step if you like, or simply add trim of your choice. Click on the above image to view and download written instructions for the bag. ​

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Gift Bag with Custom Printed Ribbon

This fifth and final bag features pearls at the top edge just like the previous bag. I made mine from polyester organza for an extra elegant look but you could use ordinary quilt weight cotton or something similar if you like.

Custom printed ribbon is a unique addition to this bag and the ribbon itself can serve as a gift tag. The Brother P-Touch Ribbon & Tape Printer is a creative tool that allows you to print custom messages on satin ribbon of various colors. Decorative patterns are built in to the printer, with themes celebrating all sorts of hobbies and special occasions.  custom printed ribbons are sure to get ooohs and ahhhs from everyone who sees your pretty packages! Check your local craft supplier for machine availablity, or look for a retailer online and find out more about this item HERE.

I hope you enjoyed this ideas for hand crafted gift bags. I'd love to read any comments you care to share!