Turn Yesterday’s Packaging into Today’s Perfect Gift Tag (with video tutorial)!

Hello, and welcome! Today I'm sharing here one of my favorite upcycling projects: creating gift tags out of materials that would otherwise be tossed out. 

Because, really, have you ever looked at beautiful cardboard packaging, perfume boxes, or promo leaflets and thought - this is too pretty to send into the recycling bin? Well, the next time that happens, remember you can actually turn them into gorgeous, custom gift tags for your next present!

In this quick and easy DIY project, I upcycled a colorful hand soap box and a floral leaflet (that came in another box) into 8 unique, handcrafted gift tags.

The description of the whole process is below, though you can also watch the video tutorial here. 

What You’ll Need:

• An empty perfume or cosmetics box (cardboard base)

• A colorful promo leaflet, greeting card, or magazine clipping

• Scissors

• Glue stick

• Tag-shaped die cutter (or tag punch / handmade template)

• Crochet yarn, embroidery thread or just a piece of twine

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Prep the Cardboard Base

Carefully cut open your perfume box and flatten it out. Cut away any glued edges or extra flaps so you’re left with clean, sturdy strips of colorful cardstock to serve as the backings for your tags.

2. Select & Cut Your Decorative Imagery

Take your floral leaflet or promo card and cut around the pretty illustrations or patterns you’d like to feature.

3. Glue the Layers Together

Using a standard glue stick, apply adhesive to the back of your floral cutout and press it firmly onto the cardboard strip. Make sure to smooth out any air bubbles!

4. Die-Cut Your Tags

Run your layered cardstock through a die-cutting machine (or use a heavy-duty tag punch) centered over your floral designs. Repeat the process across your remaining scraps to get as many gift tags as you can out of them. At the end of the day, even free-hand cutting works. These are handmade gift tags anyway, and are supposed to be as inexpensive as possible, so do your best with what you already have at home.

Remember to punch a small hole at the top of your tags if your die or tag punch doesn't do it for you.

5. Thread & Finish

Cut a short length of yarn or embroidery floss, loop it through the hole at the top of each tag, and knot the ends together if necessary:

The Result

You now have a collection of eco-friendly, custom gift tags ready to elevate any birthday, holiday, or thank-you gift—all while giving single-use packaging a second life! 🌿🎁

And if you missed the link above, click below for the video:

Have leftover box packaging at home? Grab your scissors and glue and give it a try!

Thank you for stopping by, and happy Thursday,

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

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