Sometimes the smallest project is the most satisfying one. A handmade tag takes just a few minutes, uses up paper scraps you already have on hand, and turns something as simple as a wrapped gift or a jar of homemade jam into something that feels a little more thoughtful.
Why Tags Are a Great Starting Project
If collage cards feel like a bigger undertaking, tags are the perfect place to start instead. They're small, forgiving, and a great way to use up leftover scraps from a decoupage sheet or sticker page you've already cut into for another project — nothing goes to waste.
They're also useful for more than gift-giving:
- Gift tags — for wrapped presents, gift bags, or baskets
- Bookmark-style tags — a slightly longer tag doubles easily as a bookmark
- Jar and label tags — for homemade jam, candles, or bath salts
- Plant tags — tucked into a pot or attached with twine to mark a variety
- Favor tags — for party favors, wedding favors, or thank-you gifts
Building a Simple Tag
A basic tag comes together in just a few steps:
- Start with a base — either cut your own shape from cardstock, or use pre-cut blank tags, which come in a range of sizes and shapes (small gift tags, longer bookmark-style tags, rounded or angled tops) and save you the cutting step entirely
- Add your decoupage paper layer — a small trimmed or torn piece of decoupage paper adds color and pattern without overwhelming a shape this small
- Add a sticker as the focal point — since a tag is tiny, one well-placed sticker usually does more than several
- Punch a hole and add twine or ribbon — this is what turns a flat paper shape into something that actually ties onto a gift
A Few Ways to Vary the Look
- Layer two colors of cardstock before adding your decoupage paper, so a thin colored border peeks out around the edge
- Round the corners with a corner punch for a softer, more finished look
- Leave space for handwriting — a small blank strip or circle left uncovered gives room to write a name or short note directly on the tag
- Match tags to a card or gift wrap — using the same decoupage paper on a tag as on a card or wrapped package ties a whole gift together as one cohesive set
Why We Love This
Tags are one of the easiest ways to get real use out of every scrap of a decoupage sheet or sticker page — the leftover corner from a bigger project becomes the star of a tiny one. They're quick enough to make a whole batch in one sitting, and thoughtful enough that the person receiving one usually notices.
You can find our decoupage papers and sticker sheets in the shop now. We'll also be sharing our favorite blank tags, sticker paper, envelopes, and other supplies through affiliate links soon — so you'll have an easy way to find exactly what we use, right from the blog.