Free Printable Gift Bag Template – Looking for a free printable gift bag template? Whether you need quick party favor bags, small treat holders, or custom packaging for birthdays, holidays, or thank-you gifts, printable templates let you create polished paper gift bags at home using standard US Letter paper, cardstock, or scrapbook paper.
These DIY options save money, reduce waste from store-bought bags, and let you match any theme or color scheme. Below you’ll find trusted free resources, simple assembly tips, and practical advice for USA crafters.
Why Use a Free Printable Gift Bag Template?
Printable templates eliminate measuring and guessing. Most are designed for 8.5″ x 11″ letter-size paper and include clear cut and fold lines. You can print directly onto decorative paper or transfer the pattern to wrapping paper or cardstock.
Finished bags work well for small gifts like candy, soap, jewelry, gift cards, or party favors. Many designs fold flat for easy storage and can be made in minutes with basic supplies: scissors or a craft knife, glue or double-sided tape, and optional ribbon or handles.
Best Free Printable Gift Bag Templates
Here are reliable, currently available free options from established craft sites. All support standard US Letter printing and include clear instructions.
Simple Gift Bag Template
Homemade Gifts Made Easy offers a straightforward free printable gift bag template perfect for small gifts or goody bags. Print onto the blank side of patterned paper or cardstock, cut along solid lines, score the dotted lines, fold into a tube, glue the side tab, and assemble the base. A locking tab keeps the top closed.
Download the free PDF and full instructions here: Free Printable Gift Bag Template.
Gable-Style Gift Bag with Handles Look
The same site provides a cute gable-bag style template that creates a more structured look suitable for candies, soaps, or small presents. Assembly follows a similar cut-score-fold-glue process.
Get the free template and steps: Printable Gift Bag Templates.
Locking-Top Party Favor Bags
Aunt Annie’s Crafts offers free black-and-white PDF patterns for gusseted locking-top bags in several sizes. The top flap folds into the opposite pleat for a secure close—ideal for party favors or treats. Patterns print full-size on letter paper.
Find the patterns and detailed tutorial: Locking-Top Party Favor Bags.
Tube-Shaped Gift Bags
Aunt Annie’s also provides free printable tube-shaped gift bag patterns in multiple sizes. These create clean, upright bags that work for a wide range of small gifts and fold flat for storage. Optional decorative versions and sizing guidance are included.
Access the free patterns and how-to: Tube-Shaped Gift Bags.
Decorative DIY Gift Bag with Handles
Country Hill Cottage offers a free printable multi-piece gift bag design (with matching tag) that can be printed on cardstock. Reinforce the bottom with cardboard for sturdiness, add cord handles, and create side gussets for a finished look.
Download the free printable: DIY Gift Bag Free Printable.
Free Printable Gift Bag Template
How to Make a Printable Gift Bag – Quick Steps?
Most templates follow a similar process:
- Print at 100% scale on US Letter paper or cardstock (patterned side facing down if printing on the back).
- Cut along solid lines.
- Score dotted fold lines with a bone folder, empty ballpoint pen, or butter knife and ruler for crisp folds.
- Fold and glue side tabs and base flaps with craft glue or double-sided tape.
- Optional: Punch holes and add ribbon, twine, or handles; decorate with stamps, stickers, or washi tape.
Use heavier cardstock for durability or reinforce the bottom of lighter paper bags. For larger gifts, scale the pattern up when printing or use wrapping-paper methods described on the Aunt Annie’s sites.
Tips for Best Results
- Always print at actual size (100%) and check “fit to page” is off.
- Patterned scrapbook paper or cut-down wrapping paper works great—print the template on the reverse side.
- Score before folding for professional-looking creases.
- Make several at once for parties or holiday prep.
- Store flat templates or finished bags until needed.
These free printable gift bag templates give you flexible, low-cost packaging that looks thoughtful and custom. Start with one of the simple designs above, gather basic supplies, and you’ll have handmade gift bags ready in minutes. Happy crafting!