How to Make Paper Bag Art at Home (No Talent Required!)
This paper bag art project is a super simple DIY project that lets you play with creativity, even if drawing isn’t your thing. With just a grocery bag and a few basic supplies, you can make charming, vintage-style wall art that feels homemade and personal.
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I have an artist within me.
We all do. Yes, you too!
But sometimes I wish the artist within me were just a little more skilled!
Sometimes I like trying arts and crafts even when I know I am not good at freehand drawing.
Give me a wall or door to paint, and I am good to go!
But freehand painting…only if imperfection is okay!
I’m sharing a project that is not about being perfect.
It is about making something warm, personal, and uniquely mine!
Key Points
- Learn how to turn a simple paper grocery bag into a vintage-style wall art piece using easy steps and basic supplies.
- Create an aged parchment look with water and hair conditioner.
- Use a printed image as a guide if you don’t feel comfortable with freehand painting.
- Frame your creation for personal, cozy home decor.
My Paper Bag Art Subject
I decided to paint my Boston terrier, Winston.
Actually, that is Sir Winston, as he is quite the gentleman!
His face is my favorite gift every day because he looks happy and grumpy at the same time!
You can choose whatever subject you want to paint. But, of course, a pet portrait is always a good idea!
What You Need
This project starts with something very simple…
A grocery sack!
You need a few other things that you probably already have in your house.
- a brown paper bag with the handles removed
- water in a small cup or a spray bottle
- A little hair conditioner (not a shampoo/conditioner combo)
- pencil
- small paintbrush
- black craft paint (or at least a dark color)
- a simple printed picture or outline you want to paint
- scissors
Make the Paper Look Old
First, cut a clean piece from your grocery bag. It’s ok if it has printing on one side. You will use the side without words or store marks.
Now scrunch the paper in your hands.
I love this part!
Once scrunched, smooth the paper flat again.
Next, sprinkle a little water on the paper and spread it around with your fingers.
Saturate the paper so it feels wet and damp but not soaked.
Scrunch it again. Be a little more gentle with your scrunching technique now that the paper is wet.
Now rub a small amount of hair conditioner onto the paper and spread it across the whole surface.
I love this part too!
And then…you guessed it! Scrunch it again!
The paper now looks old and soft, like an old canvas waiting for a masterpiece.
Flatten the paper and let it completely dry.
Pick Something to Paint
As I mentioned, Winston is my model for this project.
But that “lack of painting skill” thing is in my way.
So, I cheated.
You can cheat too. Kind of like how Ina Garten sometimes buys an apple tart from Trader Joe’s to go with dinner? Yes, like that!
I found a simple, fairly graphic picture of a Boston Terrier on Adobe Pro. The image does not have a lot of detail. That is good because I’m not going for nuance in this piece.
The internet is loaded with image templates you can use!
Once you decide on an image, cut it out and place it where you want it on your artwork. Then, trace around the outside with a pencil so you have an outline of the image.
Use a small paintbrush and paint the outline with black paint. (or a darker color) After that is finished, fill in the dark parts slowly.
I kept the cut-out image right in front of me so I could freehand the eyes, nose, and paws. These details can be hard, and mine are certainly not perfect.
That is OK! Imperfect art feels more human.
And that is usually the best kind!
When the paint is dry, place your paper bag art in a frame and hang it up!
Hang it where light can touch the wrinkles in the paper. The wrinkles make the art feel soft and old in a good way.
For the Artist in All of Us
Even if you can only draw a stick figure…you can do this!
Also, this is a nice project for kids to watch, help, or take control!
Don’t aim for perfection. Aim for personalization!
You know you have hit the mark when you subject loves it too…my happy and grumpy Sir Winston!
Because sometimes a simple brown paper bag is all you need to find your inner artist!
Cheers!
A Little About Me
Hi! I’m missy. So happy to meet you!
“Decorate with Joy! Live with Happiness”
I truly believe that your home should be a reflection of your personality, a space where you feel free to express yourself and create a sanctuary that feels uniquely yours.
I love creating mood boards, hunting down unique home décor treasures, tackling easy DIY projects, and gathering with family and friends. Homes are meant to be enjoyed, filled with laughter, and shared with the people you love!
– cheers –
Don’t Forget to Pin It!
Pin the image below to your boards on Pinterest (just click the Pin button in the top left corner). You can also follow along with me on Pinterest!
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This is adorable Missy! I need to try this with Eleanor!
I like crafts for people like me who aren’t that creative! This is a good one! What great work!
I’m very impressed, Missy. You did a great job on this very creative project. I wonder what Winston thinks when he looks at the picture.
Love!! So cute, Missy!!
Aww, so cute, and I love how it’s hung above his bowls!
Thanks, Tania! Winston hasn’t seemed to notice (LOL) but I’m loving it there!
I love projects using everyday materials, and what an adorable model! Featuring when my link party opens.
Thank you so much, Carol! I truly appreciate it!
I love this! And it looks like so much fun to make.
Thank you so much, friend! It really was fun to make!