Aleene's Favorites: Burnt Brown Paper Bag Technique with Tacky Glue
One of the best things about Aleene's Original Tacky Glue is its versatility— it can be used for a variety of craft applications, like the burnt brown paper bag technique! This unique technique was discovered during Aleene's early days while testing the Tacky Glue formula for flammability. With just a few simple supplies and a bottle of Tacky Glue, you can turn plain brown paper bags into burnished metallic décor! Grab your Tacky Glue and get ready to try this vintage paper bag craft!
Supplies Needed:
Brown paper bag
Gloves
Cardstock stencil
Scissors
Pencil
Wilre
Candle + lighter
Gilding wax
Paper towel
Plastic card (optional)
Step 1: Glue layers of brown paper bag
For this vintage paper bag craft, we’re creating butterflies with the burnt brown paper bag technique! You will need four layers of paper to create one decoration. Cut your brown paper bag into equally sized squares large enough to fit your stencil. Apply Tacky Glue across the surface of one square, spreading into a thin layer with a plastic card if desired, then press another square on top to adhere. Repeat to create two glued squares composed of two layers each.
Step 2: Trace stencil onto brown paper bag
Use a pencil to trace your stencil on to both glued pieces of brown paper bag.
Step 3: Apply Tacky Glue to brown paper bag
Roughly trim your layers of paper, if desired. Apply Tacky Glue to one layer of the brown paper bag, place wire in the center, then place the other layer of brown paper bag on top and press firmly to adhere.
Step 4: Trim brown paper bag with scissors
Use scissors to trim excess paper from your traced shape.
Step 5: Spread Tacky Glue onto brown paper bag
Lay a paper towel onto your work surface and light a candle. Apply a thick layer of Tacky Glue to one side of your paper bag craft, using gloved hands to spread the Tacky Glue across the entire surface including the edges and sides. Do not leave any of the brown paper bag exposed.
Step 6: Burn the Tacky Glue
Hold your paper bag craft by the wire, then carefully burn the wet glue over the open flame, moving slowly and constantly to blacken the glue. The very tip of the flame should be touching the project, creating a subtle texture while scorching the glue. Let your burnt brown paper bag project set for several minutes, then use a paper towel to gently wipe away the soot. If you break through the skin of the glue, simply re-burn the area. Repeat steps 5 and 6 to burn the other side of your paper bag craft.
Step 7: Let dry and burnish with gilding wax
Once both sides of the burnt glue have dried completely, apply a small amount gilding wax to your paper bag craft for a burnished metallic effect.
Step 8: Display your paper bag craft!
Once the gilding wax has dried, your paper bag craft is ready to display. The burnt brown paper bag technique makes great décor for planters, wall art, and so much more!
What else will you create with the burnt brown paper bag technique? Show us your take on this vintage paper bag craft and tag us on social media @aleenesDIY!
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