This document provides instructions for transforming a paper bag into a book stand. It describes cutting the handle off the bag and measuring and cutting cardboard inserts to form the structure. Flaps are cut and folded to neatly finish the top. Double-sided tape is used to adhere the flaps to the cardboard. The completed book stand can display books while standing on a shelf or be used to carry books. Soft paper bags and reinforcing the sides are also described as alternatives.

1. By GreenBeing Nancy http://greenbeingnancy.blogspot.com/ Paper Bag Transformation

2. Materials To Salvaged Paper Bags Cardboards

3. From these….

4. … to this. My new book stand. I have selected this paper bag because I love the lotus design on it. The book stand height is determined by the picture on the paper bag, to ensure that it will not be cropped off.

5. Method Keep the bag flat on the table. Then cut the handle off with a pair of scissors No measurement is required. Just cut it along the edge where the cardboard that form the top at both sides end.

6. Measure size for cardboard Place the cut paper bag on top of cardboard to measure height for cardboard.

7. Check cardboard size Cut cardboard to size required. Place it inside the paper bag to ensure that it fits in nicely. Cut another piece to the same size. Insert both into sides of paper bag to confirm that they fit. Do same for narrow sides of bag.

8. To form flap for neater finish. If a neater finish is preferred, cut the cardboard so that it is about 6cm shorter than the paper bag.

9. To prepare flap. Cut the paper bag at the top till it reaches the edge of cardboard. Do the same for all 4 corners.

10. To fold flap. Fold flap in half. Fold it again, this time over the cardboard.

11. Trim to fit. Trip the sides of flap if it does not sit in snugly into the box.

12. Seal flap to cardboard. Use double sided tape and stick it to the flap as show here. Remove the paper backing of tape and press over cardboard. Do the same for all flaps. That’s it. Your book stand is ready for action.

13. Can you use soft brown paper bag?

14. Yes, you can. Take the cut out top and… … open it up.

15. Reinforce the sides Follow the same procedures for the 1 st book stand. Then place the cut out top over the top of the bag as shown here. You can staple the handle to top or punch holes to push the cords through.

16. Dual usage. I can place it on the book shelf or… … use it as a carrier.

17. So, before you throw… Discover new uses. With GreenBeing Nancy