Fun and Easy Scrap Wallpaper Crafts

Wallpaper is like fabric. I can never have too much or too many designs. I don't necessarily use it for walls either. It's a great craft supply with so many possibilities, that whenever I find it at yard sales or thrift stores, I just have to have it. If you scrap book with various papers you know what I mean and for those who hoard fabric, it's one more guilty pleasure to acquire in masses.

Gift Bags-Make your own gift bags and save piles of money. Start by finding a box that will help mold your gift bag. Cake mix boxes and cereal boxes are a couple of examples. The boxes don't have to be opened, because once you form your bag, you are done with the box. Wrap the box with wallpaper exactly like wrapping a gift. Leave one end open. Slide the box out. Cut a piece of cardboard and insert in the bottom of the bag for stability. Fold the raw edges at the top of the bag to the inside 1". Cut 1" strips of cardboard and insert under the fold at the front and back of the bag and glue in place. Using a hole punch, punch two holes on both the front and the back of the bag. Thread cording or ribbon through the holes for handles and knot. Decorate the front of the bag with additional shapes and designs of wallpaper.

Floral Cones-Roll a half circle of wallpaper into a cone shape and secure. Add a ribbon handle for hanging. Create a beautiful arrangement of dried flowers for a romantic addition to any room.

Journal-Cut multiple sheets of card stock in half, measuring 5 1/2" x 8 1/2", for the journal pages. Using a hole punch, space holes along one long edge of card stock. Cut a piece of wallpaper slightly larger than 8 1/2" x 11" and fold around the card stock sheets. Mark the placement of the holes to match the card stock holes and punch. Lace a long piece of ribbon through the holes and secure. Finish by embellishing the cover with an assortment of die cuts, laces, ribbons and buttons.

Bulletin Board-Weave strips of coordinating wallpaper together and adhere to an existing bulletin board for a whimsical makeover. For a finishing touch, paint the frame a complimentary color.

Folders and Envelopes-Cover manila folders with wallpaper. Take apart envelopes for a pattern, trace, fold and re-glue new wallpaper envelopes. Combine folders and envelopes for a one of a kind desk set.

These ideas are just the tip of the iceberg and to come up with more, all you have to do is consider all the paper products you purchase and use on a daily basis. The money you save can be immense and the "I made it myself" attitude makes the time involved worth it. You might even find yourself with a little side business, because when your friends see what you can do, they will be placing orders.