The Doilie Giftbag

While thinking of what to give my mom for Mother's Day to show how much I love her and how I could never repay her for everything she has done for me I was staring at a beautiful doilie she made for me years ago. I was struck with an idea! I have recently taken up crocheting doilies-feeling strong enough in my skill to attempt them-and they make a fantastic double treat as giftwrap!

Supplies
1. Doilie
2. Ribbon (when choosing a ribbon length, go longer than you think you will need, you can always cut later)

That’s so easy it almost doesn’t need a list!

Step 1:

First: Choose which side of the doilie is the outside and which is the inside. [Note: When choosing your doilie it is best to pick something with a close crochet pattern so that your gift doesn't tear it or slip through the holes.] Once you decide, take the end of your ribbon and push it through your first hole from inside to outside. [Note: When selecting where to weave your ribbon, choose someplace near the top and keep your spacing consistent-see second picture above-so that way your end result will look more even] This will be the end of one side of the ribbon.

Step 2:

Next: With the longer side (the side coming out the side you chose for the inside of the bag) begin weaving the ribbon back and forth through the hole. [See first picture above] Since doilie patterns tend to be symmetrical you should finish with the end of each side of the ribbon on the outside of your bag. [See second picture above]

Step 3: Tip: Straightening Your Ends

Tip: If the ends of your ribbon don’t match up you can line up each end [See first picture above] and, while holding the ends in place, cinch the doilie shut [See second picture]. Continue to hold the ends tightly and reopen the bag carefully so it spreads across the ribbon evenly.

Step 4:

Next: It’s time to wrap your gift! Place your item in the center of the bag and use one hand to hold the sides up around the object while you cinch the doilie around it tightly.

Step 5:

Lastly: Tie off your bag and arrange the fringe above the ribbon so it looks uniform and fuller. You can cut off any excess ribbon at this time.

Tip: Use smaller doilies for little trinkets or treasures for a child. Alternately you can use large doilies for larger gifts.