This is one of my fave new ways of making pockets in paper bag books. I am sure someone else already “invented” this technique but I stumbled upon it by accident when designing my “Our Little Monkey” paper bag book sample.

I gave the first session of the “Our Little Monkey” paper bag book class on Thursday. I was in Scrappin’ Good Times today while Cindy was giving her “Night to Remember” paper bag book class. Boy, was I excited when I heard Rachel who had been in my Thursday night class, describe this technique to Cindy. I am so happy when people actually learn something in my classes besides just coming away with a project. Woohoo Rachel!

Since the tip is so easy, I figured I’d go ahead and share it here with pics to demo.

STEP 1: Fold your paper bag in half as you would to make the book.

STEP 2: Insert a 5.25″ x 5″ piece of cardstock wrong side up underneath the flap made by the bottom of the bag. Attach with adhesive. The paper may need to be 5.25″ x6″ depending on the paper bag you use. The 5.25″ side should be vertical.

STEP 3: Fold the paper sticking out of the flap over onto the flap and attach with adhesive. The paper showing should now be right side up. The makes a nice finished edge on the edge of the pocket. Now more paper cuts! No more curled paper edges! Woohoo! But we’re not done yet…

STEP 4: Add a 3″x 5.25″ piece of paper under the flap to cover the last bit of paper bag showing on that page (not shown). Glue, staple, or otherwise attach the edges of the flap to the page to make the pocket. Insert tags, mats, or whatever into the pocket.

Some additional ideas about how to finsh off the pocket:

• Secure with brads on each side. Use 2 or 3 to change things up!
• Punch two holes on each side of the pocket, thread ribbon through, and tie a bow to secure the pocket sides.
• Staple the edges of the pocket. Or use the Fastenator.
• Secure with rivets or eyelets using the Crop-A-Dile.
• Tack the edges down with embroidery stitches and yarn or embroidery thread.
• Sew the edges by machine.