I love this very simple reuse idea! Before you go to recycle food boxes, tissue boxes, toy boxes, or greeting cards, upcycle them into gift tags!
(Here’s the other video I made about Gift Tags.)
Making your own gift tags is…
-easy
-fun
-free!
-a great way to upcycle
-a great way to cut down on the packaging waste of store-bought gift tags
The idea is super simple…
-Use old greeting cards, cereal/cracker/packaging boxes, old calendars, wrapping paper–really anything with a blank back. Use your imagination!
-Use a gift tag punch or large circle punch to cut out some tags. No punchers? No problem. Borrow one, ask on Freecycle, or just trace and cut your own shapes!
-Punch a small hole at the top of your gift tag using a regular hole punch or sharp pencil. Or just skip this and tape/glue the tag to string or gift.
-Add a small thread or thin string.
-You’re done!
Tips:
-A thick paper or thin card stock is usually best, but not necessary.
-Make a bunch at once and save for future gifts.
-Give as part of a eco-friendly gift wrap set to your eco-conscious friends.
-Reuse tags within your household.
-If they qualify, recycle scraps when punching tags and recycle tags when their time is done.
-Experiment with chalkboard paint on the blank side, so you can reuse the tag using a chalkboard pencil to write. Or simply save the tags within your immediate family for use on future gifts.
Even though a small one or two inch piece of paperboard might not seem like a huge environmental difference, I love that this project is one of those gentle reminders that we can find ways to give our “trash” new life. It also cuts down on the need to buy store-bought gift tags, which, while not super expensive, still has an environmental cost in its production and packaging.
Your actions can and WILL make a difference!
Pinterest page for ReduceReuseReimagine