Are you looking for a fun and creative way to present a small gift or gift card? A Double Pocket Bag is a quick and easy project that adds a handmade touch of charm to any special occasion. With just a single 12″ x 12″ sheet of Designer Series Paper (DSP), you can create an adorable bag that’s as delightful as the gift inside.
To make this Double Pocket Bag, begin by selecting a beautiful sheet of DSP. For my examples, I chose a sheet from the vibrant Flowering Zinnias DSP and a couple sheets from the cozy A Little Latte DSP. Each paper’s unique design brings a distinctive personality to the finished project.
Start by scoring the DSP on the left side at 3-1/4″. Flip the DSP over and score the other side at 3-1/4″. Rotate the DSP and score the bottom at 3-3/4″ as shown in the diagram below. Once the scoring is complete, use your Bone Folder to burnish all the score lines thoroughly. This step ensures crisp, clean folds and a professional look.
Next, fold in the left and right sides along the score lines. To create a decorative “collar” effect, take the upper left corner and fold it so the inside edge meets the outside edge. Repeat this step with the upper right corner (or – if you prefer, you can tuck the flaps inside. It’s up to you! I have shown the bag with both options). Open up the left side flap, and on the right piece, apply a strong adhesive like Tear & Tape along the side edge. Apply adhesive to the left piece as well. Using your Take Your Pick tool, remove the adhesive backing, then bring the sides together to adhere in the middle.
To form the bottom pocket, apply Tear & Tape in a “U” shape at the base of the bag. Remove the backing and fold up the bottom to secure it in place. At this point, your Double Pocket Bag is taking shape, ready to hold small treasures or sweet surprises.
A gift card will fit perfectly into the bottom pocket (as well as the upper pocket). You can slip a card or other goodies into the larger upper pocket.
Here is the link to the video from my YouTube channel with step-by-step showing you how to create the double pocket bag. It’s very short, quick and easy! You’ll love knowing how to do this fun project!
And you should, by all means, add a coordinating card to complete your presentation – especially if you’re a card maker. In fact, it will be hard for you to resist creating a coordinating card after making this adorable bag. The card I created is a large slimline card that fits into a No. 10 (9-1/2″ x 4-1/4″) envelope. I had a wonderful time creating this card to go along with the bag. I’m entering this fun card in the Freshly Made Sketches #666 online challenge and have the measurements for it listed below. If you choose to make a regular US-sized card, it will fit inside the upper pocket beautifully, and then the bag (if you want) can fit into an A9 sized (5-3/4″ x 8-3/4″) envelope for your presentation and/or mailing!
Freshly Made Sketches #666 – A Sketch by Jen B
While the card adds a thoughtful touch, it’s the bag that steals the show. To embellish, consider adding ribbon, coordinating DSP, or even a little tag to make it extra special. Fill the pockets with gift cards, treats, or small keepsakes to delight the recipient.
Card Measurements (in inches):
- Card base (Calypso Coral) – 8 x 9-1/4, score in half at 4
- 1st Layer (Early Espresso) – 8-7/8 x 3-3/4
- 2nd Layer (Lost Lagoon) – 8-3/4 x 3-5/8
- 3rd Layer (DSP) – 8-1/2 x 3-1/4
- Inside – same sizes as 1st, 2nd, and 3rd layers – Basic White used for 3rd layer instead of DSP
This Double Pocket Bag is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a holiday, or just want to brighten someone’s day. Its versatility and charm make it a project you’ll turn to again and again.
Try it out and share the joy of handmade gifting!
Supplies Used to Create These Projects:
This is such a great card Julia! I love those different cups of java! They work perfectly for the sketch! Love the background paper as well! I need to watch that tutorial! The double paper bag looks so fun! Thanks for joining us this week at Freshly Made Sketches!
Thank you so much, Jen! I truly appreciate your kind words and am so thrilled you liked my card! The different cups of java were such a joy to work with—they brought the perfect cozy vibe to the project. I’m glad you enjoyed the background paper too; it’s one of my favorites for adding that little extra something!
I’m delighted that the Double Pocket Bag caught your eye as well. It’s such a fun and versatile project! I’d love for you to give it a try—you can check out the tutorial on my YouTube channel and blog for all the details. I’d be so excited to see your take on it if you decide to make one!
Thank you again for hosting such a fantastic challenge at Freshly Made Sketches. I always enjoy the inspiration and creativity from everyone who participates! Looking forward to joining in again soon.
I love your row of coffee cups. There’s nothing better than starting my day at a special coffee shop with a cup of coffee that looks like that in front of me! Thank you for playing along with us at Freshly Made Sketches.
Thank you so much, Kim! I’m so glad you enjoyed the row of coffee cups—it’s such a fun design to work with! While I’m not a coffee drinker myself, I can totally appreciate the joy of a perfectly crafted cup in a cozy coffee shop. 😊
Thank you for taking the time to stop by and leave such a kind comment! I always love playing along with Freshly Made Sketches—it’s such an inspiring challenge. Looking forward to joining in again soon!