What should you do with all your used Christmas gift wrap? Make an ugly sweater vest out of it!

Step 1: Keep Your Paper

This project requires a stack of large sheets of used gift wrap. Try to carefully unwrap your presents so that the paper doesn't tear. Resist the urge to tear open your presents!

Step 2: Cut Your Paper Into Strips

Cut the paper into 1 inch strips. The longer the pieces, the better.

I cut my strips on a large cutting mat, using a T-square and a rotary cutter.

Step 3: Weave Your Strips

Align your strips vertically so that they are touching side-by-side. Tape one end to a sturdy flat surface.

Next, weave strips through horizontally.

You will need one sheet of woven paper for each side of your vest.

Step 4: Glue a Lining to Your Woven Paper

Flip over your woven paper. Apply glue to the white side of the paper with a paint brush (I used Mod Podge and a foam brush). Then put a large piece of used paper over top of the glue. This will give your paper a little more strength and help to prevent your weaving from coming undone.

Step 5: Cut Out Your Vest Pieces

Use a vest you already have or sketch out pattern pieces for your vest. Then, tape your pattern onto your sheet of woven paper to keep it in place while you cut out your pieces.