Don't Throw Out Those Old Shipping Mailers, Try This Cute Upcycling DIY Instead

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Beautiful décor pieces can sometimes come from the unlikeliest places, including the trash or recycling bin, where paper and packing materials can often be just the element needed to create unique DIY pieces. These ingenious upcycling projects can turn trash to treasure with just a few easy modifications. One clever project popping up on social media uses Amazon paper mailers to create adorable wall décor resembling vintage flour sacks.

All you need for this cool and customizable DIY is a mailer, some paint, glue, decorative paper, and a few additional crafting accents. The texture of the mailers make a perfect ruddy material that already imparts a rustic vibe. Not only is this DIY budget friendly and simple to create but is also very earth conscious, being a clever way to use leftover mail packaging that may otherwise end up in a landfill. 

Begin by painting the mailer with chalk paint that serves as a primer and lightens the surface. Add a liberal coating of Mod Podge to the packaging, then adhere paper using a decoupage technique. You can use paper specifically intended for decoupage or other thinner papers like napkins, tissue paper, or wrapping paper. Smooth the paper over the surface and allow it to dry. To add decorative accents that evoke vintage flour sacks use stamps, vinyl transfers, or stencils to get the well-worn look you want. When you've finished, stuff the interior with tissue paper then fold it over, adding two holes and loop wire or twine though the top for hanging.

The project offers endless opportunities for customization and multiple creative ways to use decoupage. And you don't have to recreate a rustic flour sack: Feel free to make your own designs and styles. Fun alternatives include making the mailer look like an old-school airmail package by adding stamps and labels or creating a woven basket design using strips of jute rope. Other great ideas include adding ribbons, flowers, vintage buttons, embroidery, and other rustic accents. You can also leave the mailer open on top and add flowers and greenery inside to create a stunning DIY hanging planter.