Introduction: Pocket Full of Sunshine
These cute little pockets will brighten up any gift. Let your creative juices flow, with this quick and easy paper craft project. This is a simple way to take your gift to the next level. Thank yous, birthdays, and graduation are just a few of your endless possibilities. Choose themed paper to add a special touch to your gift that will surely be received with enthusiasm. You can use card stock or a plain paper lunch sack to create this gift card, money, or small treat holder.
Step 1: Gather Your Equipment and Supplies
Equipment & Supplies
- Sewing Machine & Thread
- Paper Cutter
- Ruler
- Scissors
- Tape
- Pen
- Card stock or paper lunch sack
- Scrapbook paper
- Twine, ribbon or string
- Gift card, money, small gift
- Optional: cellophane bags (if using cookies)
Step 2: Cut the Card Stock and Scrapbook Paper
Cut the Card Stock and Scrapbook Paper
Using the paper cutter, cut the card stock (or paper lunch sack) and scrapbook paper (see dimensions below). You will need two pieces of coordinating scrapbook paper. The possibilities are endless! Get creative. You can choose paper for each occasion to make your gift extra special. You can even recycle old Christmas cards or birthday cards instead of using scrapbook paper.
For each holder, you will need:
- 1 piece Card stock: 5" x 8 1/2"
- 2 pieces scrapbook paper(use two different prints of coordinating patterns): 3 1/4" x 4 3/4"
Cut as many as you want. The more the merrier! I usually make several at once since they are quick and easy, plus I already have my sewing machine and all the supplies set up.
Note: You can use a paper lunch sack for this project. If using a paper sack, it is about 5 inches wide. You will just need to cut a little off the top of the bag.
Step 3: Fold Card Stock & Tape Scrapbook Paper in Place
Fold Card Stock & Tape Scrapbook Paper In Place
- Measure 3 1/2 inches from the bottom of the card stock with a ruler and draw a line. Use a little pressure as you draw the line as this will make it easier to fold.
- Fold along the line.
- Tape both scrapbook papers in place, leaving about 1/8" from all edges.
Step 4: Sew & Knot the Threads
Sew & Knot The Threads
- Set up your sewing machine with your desired thread.
- Set stitch length at a longer setting.
- Practice: using a piece of card stock scraps, sew around the edge to practice. Make adjustments to the stitch length if needed.
- Sew around the outside edge starting in one corner and finishing in the same corner (don't back stitch), making sure that you sew through scrapbook paper and card stock.
- Lift the presser foot and remove the envelope making sure to leave the threads 4 or 5 inches long.
- On the back side, lift the threads and gently pull all the threads to the back.
- Knot the threads, securing with a square knot. Make sure to secure the knots but don't pull too tightly (you don't want to tear the paper).
Step 5: Finish With String, Twine, or Ribbon
Embellish With String, Twine, or Ribbon
- Choose your string or ribbon and wrap it around the envelope. I wrapped the thin twine a few times and then tied a bow.
- Get creative. You can put a little note inside the pocket or tie on a little tag. I like to make my tags out of some card stock scraps.
What I love about these is that the possibilities are endless and every pocket is unique. These little pockets will take your gift from plain to fabulous in just a few minutes. Have fun creating!