Recycling Brown Paper Bags to Save Our Planet

This is the only planet we have and it is our job to preserve and protect it. Getting your family to recycle may seem
like a daunting task, but with a little encouragement, everyone can do their part.

A bonus of recycling is a wonderful supply of objects that can be used to make craft projects with your children. For Earth Day 2009, teach your children the value of recycling with these Earth Day activities.

Recycling Brown Paper Bags
When you go to the grocery store, instead of getting plastic bags, ask for paper bags at the checkout line. Brown paper bags have many uses. You can use them in your trash cans. They are much more biodegradable than plastic bags. You can also do many crafts with brown paper bags.

Brown paper bag craft # 1: Wrapping Paper
A brown paper bag makes great gift wrapping paper. All you need is a bag, paint or markers, a pair of scissors, and a little imagination. Optional items you might want to use include craft sponges and stencils.

Cut the brown paper bag apart at the seams, opening it up until it lays flat.

Place it on the table with the writing side down. Use the paint or markers to decorate your wrapping paper. Be creative and have fun. Let the paint dry and you have made wrapping paper.

Brown paper bag craft #2: Vest
A paper bag vest is a great craft project to do with little ones. You'll need a bag, scissors, and paint or markers.

Optional items are construction paper, glue, buttons, and any other embellishments you choose.

Cut the bag down the middle and turn inside out. Cut a hole on what used to be the bottom of the bag for the head and a hole in the side for the arms. Use your imagination and decorate your vest.

For a picture and more detailed instruction, visit free kids crafts.com.

Brown paper bag craft #3: Stationery
A brown paper bag can be turned into beautifully unique stationery. You will need a bag, scissors, rubber stamps and ink, craft sponges and paint.

Cut the brown paper bag apart at the seams, opening it up until it lays flat.

Cut the bag into stationery size pieces. The size and shape of the stationery is your choice.

Once you have all the pieces cut to the shape and size that you want, you may want to iron them to make them flat.

Decorate your stationery with the rubber stamps and ink or the paint and sponges.

Brown paper bag craft #4: Party Hat
Making a party hat out of a brown paper bag is a fun and easy craft to do with young children. All you need is a bag, a stapler, and some glitter glue.

Carefully turn a paper bag inside out. Roll the top down to form the brim of the hat. On the backside of the hat, gather the paper and staple it for a better fit.

Decorate the hat with the glitter glue. Let the glue dry completely before wearing the hat.