It’s color challenge day and I’m excited to share a cheerful yellow project: smiley-face favor pouches. Yellow is one of my favorite colors and for this project I wanted it to be the star. These little pouches are simple, bright, and sure to make guests smile. The technique is easy and fun—yes, you can sew paper—and adding a thin layer of wax paper makes the pouches food-safe so you can tuck in candy, confetti, or other small treats.
Supplies:
Free printable smile face, printed on regular paper
Wax paper (optional unless you’re filling with food)
Sewing machine threaded with white thread
Scissors
Candy or confetti for filling
Funnel (optional for easier filling)
How to make the pouches:
1. Cut out two printed smile faces for each pouch. If you’re making food-safe favors, also cut a rectangle of wax paper wide enough to span the face and long enough to fold in half. The folded wax paper will form an inner lining that keeps food from touching the printed paper.
2. Fold the wax paper in half and sandwich it between the two printed faces so you have four layers: paper, wax, wax, paper.
3. Stitch around the edge about 1/4″ from the border, leaving a 1.5″ opening for stuffing. When you begin sewing, hold all layers firmly with one hand until the first inch or so is stitched—after that the layers will stay aligned. Sew slowly and carefully; holes in paper are permanent.
4. Trim any excess wax paper along the edge so the pouch has a clean circular shape.
5. Fill the pouch using a funnel or by hand. If filling with candy, be sure the candy sits between the wax layers, not directly against the printed paper. Don’t overfill; leaving some room makes closing the opening much easier.
6. Sew the opening closed, overlapping a few stitches at the start and finish to secure the seam. Trim loose threads and your pouch is complete.
Tip: Sewing paper can dull needles faster than fabric and produces dust. Consider using a dedicated needle for paper projects and clean out the bobbin area when you’re finished.
All photos by Studio DIY
These smiley favor pouches are an ideal, sunny choice for a summer party or any event that could use a little extra cheer. They’re simple to make, customizable, and give guests a small, happy surprise. Enjoy making them and have fun with the yellow theme!
