Craft Tags-Tips, Techniques And Ideas

Craft Tags are very popular with paper crafters with good reason. On their own, many people consider them an art form. Often used in scrapbooks, on greeting cards, art journals and mini albums. They are an embellishment that adds dimension and color to any paper craft project.

How can you use paper tags:

• Gift tags
• Place cards
• Price tags for handmade goods
• Journal or planner labels
• Scrapbooking

The choices are endless! The limit to what you can create is only limited by your imagination.

The Tag Base

Every tag starts out with one common denominator and that is the tag base. The base can be aby size from a tea bag size all the way up to a large postal tag. The size is up to you and your use of your tags.

I recommend a strong paper. Nothing lower than an 85 lb paper weight. The reason for that is that you want to add extra weight, the tag will hold those embellishments.

Decide it you want to color the tag base or leave it as it is. You can use markers ink pads to color the tag.

You can also cover the tag base with printed card stock. Just trace the pattern of the tag on the reverse side of the paper, cut it out and apply with glue or double-sided tape.

You can also use distress ink around the edges of the tag to give it a aged work.

How To Create A Craft Paper Tag

Materials And Supplies

• Cardstock or scrapbook paper
• Scissors or a craft knife
• Ruler
• Pencil
• Hole punch
• String, ribbon, or twine
• Glue (optional)
• Decorative items (stickers, stamps, washi tape, etc.)

1. Choose Your Paper-Pick a cardstock or patterned paper that's sturdy enough to hold its shape. You can also upcycle paper from old packaging, books, or greeting cards. Scraps of paper can be used too. Using nested tag die cuts makes the process easier.
2. Measure and Cut the Tag Shape-Use a ruler and pencil to draw a rectangle or another shape (e.g., a traditional shipping tag shape) on the paper if you are not using a die. If you are using a die with a die cut machine, follow the die cut machines operating instructions to cut the base. Standard sizes are 2 x 3.5 inches (like a business card), or 1.5 x 2.5 inches for mini tags. But you can make your tag bases any size that you need. Cut the tags with a scissor or a craft knife.
3. Shape The Corners-Trim the top two corners at a 45° angle. You can also use punches to define your corners. Different die shapes will offer different corner options.
4. Punch tag holes-Use a hole punch to make a hole at the top center (about 0.25 inches from the edge). This is where your string or ribbon will go. 
5. Reinforce the tag hole- Cut a small circle from another piece of cardstock. Punch a hole in the center. Glue it around the hole on your tag (like a paper grommet).
6. Decorate your Tag- Use stickers, calligraphy or hand lettering, washi tape, die cuts, stamps or just doodle to add decor and dimension to your craft tags.
7. Tie ribbon, string lace or material through the hole to finish the project.

Design Tips To Take Your Tags To The Next Level

• Try to use coordinating colors-limit yourself to two or three colors for a more cohesive look.
• Match your tag colors to the theme or occasion that you are making them for. 
• Layer your materials-Layer different types of paper (e.g., patterned paper over kraft paper). Add small die-cuts, lace, or vellum for dimension.
• Use quality paper-Use thick cardstock or textured paper for durability and a premium feel. Avoid thin printer paper unless you’re layering or gluing it to a sturdier base.