Monday, May 20, 2013

Homemade Graduation Goody Bags

Bags can hold an entire stash of graduation goodies.


Graduation marks the end of one phase in a person's life and the beginning of the next. It brings with it sighs of relief, a sense of accomplishment, a wee bit of sadness and, of course, a joyous celebration. One way to delight those special graduates is with homemade graduation goody bags that show your pride in all they have achieved.


Instructions


The Bag


1. Purchase a paper lunch bag (available in grocery stores) or shopping bag from a card shop or dime store. This bag will morph into your homemade goody bag. You will need one bag for each recipient. The size of the bag will determine what goes into it.


2. Purchase colored bags if you can find ones that match the graduate's school colors. If not, buy scrapbooking papers in appropriate colors or themes that go along with the recipient's major or career interest.


3. Purchase embellishments with graduation themes such as a mortarboard, tassels, diploma, ribbons and other cut-outs that reflect the individual's tastes. Find these items in dime or dollar shops or stores that cater to scrapbooking customers. Online scrapbook stores also sell these items.


4. Use markers to print out in block letters, or go with a curvy font, the recipient's name, or write "Congratulations, Graduate" on the outside of the bag. You may also use a large font and print a small banner from your word processor and computer printer. Adhere this to the bag with adhesive or glue.


5. Decorate the bag with personal photographs, memorabilia and graduation embellishments. Glue these on until you achieve the effect you desire.


Contents


6. Fill the bag with items you know the graduate will like. Many high school students will love stickers and embellishments for their scrapbooks, inspirational books, computer related items or tech gadgets.


7. Add items that will help the graduate in a hobby or area of interest. Literary types will appreciate gift certificates to the book store, a journal and fancy pen or pack of pencils. Coin collectors will appreciate a special coin or two. Movie or concert tickets, a book of stamps and personal stationery or a new DVD make great choices.


8. Purchase gift cards, prepaid telephone cards or slip cold hard cash into an envelope. These one-size-fits-all gifts will please even the most discriminating graduate.


9. Write a personal letter that details fond memories you have connected to the graduate. Fill a small photo album with photographs and add it to the bag's contents. A personalized scrapbook that you spend time making will convey the message that this graduate is indeed special to you.


10. Tie three or four brightly colored helium-filled balloons and streamers to the bags handles. If the bag does not have handles, punch holes in the top of the bag. Thread balloon ribbons through the holes.


11. Bake homemade cookies. Purchase favorite candies and snacks. Use these items as filler for the bag. A goody bag isn't a goody bag without goodies.







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