I teased these little bags earlier and now here’s the full DIY. Whatever valentines you’re sending this year, a glitter-heart drawstring bag makes the packaging instantly sweeter. This is one of the simplest crafts you can try—freezer paper stencils do most of the work. The technique is versatile too: swap hearts for confetti shapes for birthdays, stars for awards night, shamrocks for St. Patrick’s Day, and so on. Ready? Let’s make some glitter heart bags.
Supplies
Muslin drawstring bags
Freezer paper
Heart-shaped paper punch
Mod Podge (or clear craft glue)
Fine glitter in chosen colors
Paint brush
Step 1: Make stencils. Punch hearts from freezer paper and cut each punched shape into a small square so the heart sits in the middle of the paper. These will be your iron-on stencils.
Step 2: Iron stencils to the bag. Position each stencil on the bag with the glossy side down and press with a hot iron according to the freezer paper instructions so the stencil bonds to the fabric. Slip an additional piece of freezer paper or cardboard inside the bag to prevent glue and glitter from seeping through to the back.
Step 3: Apply glue and glitter. Working with one color at a time, brush a thin, even layer of Mod Podge over each exposed heart. Immediately sprinkle glitter over the glued area, then gently shake off the excess. Let the first layer dry briefly before moving on to other colors or areas.
Step 4: Repeat for multiple colors. Cover the other hearts with glue and glitter as needed until all hearts are covered. After the glitter has dried for about 30 minutes, brush a second thin coat of Mod Podge over each glittered heart to seal it. This isn’t strictly required, but sealing reduces shedding and keeps glitter contained once the bags are handled.
Step 5: Remove stencils and finish. Carefully peel the freezer paper stencils off once the glue is dry. You’ll be left with crisp glitter hearts on your bag. Allow the sealed areas to dry completely before filling the bags with treats or gifts.
All photos by Studio DIY
Freezer paper stencils are one of my favorite go-to techniques for fabric crafts—clean edges and fast results. I’ve used the same method to monogram favor bags and other projects, and it always delivers a polished look.
Try these glitter-heart bags for your next party or holiday—simple, customizable, and delightfully sparkly.