Transform into a bag like the ones sold in stores ♡ Original DIY method for the Muji staple jute bag using paper napkins

2022.10.27 published

MUJI's Famous Item "Jute Bag"

The MUJI jute bag has become popular as a wedding gift bag.

It's sturdier and more durable than paper bags, and easier to use than tote bags because it has more space. After the wedding, recipients can use it for shopping or outings. This is one of MUJI's best-selling items.

Although it is a gift bag, it has become a gift in itself ♡

I once received a B5-sized jute bag at a friend's wedding, and I still use it a lot for grocery shopping or quick outings nearby. It's so convenient and excellent that I find myself wanting different sizes.

This MUJI jute bag is something everyone will love.

The rough, natural linen texture looks great as it is, but many people enjoy various arrangements such as embroidering, tying a ribbon on the handle, or adding cutwork.

It’s shocking how cute it can turn out using paper napkins ♡

In this article, I’m introducing an original DIY using paper napkins by a bride named HIKARU (@star.hikawd), who had her wedding at the Bayside Geihinkan Veranda in Yokohama Minato Mirai.

➡ HIKARU's Instagram account

First, let's reveal the completed version ***

@star.hikawd

Isn't it incredibly cute...?

The design of the paper napkin is transferred just as it is, transforming into a sophisticated and stylish bag that looks like something you’d buy in a store.

How exactly did she use paper napkins for this DIY...?

I learned how to make it ♩

@star.hikawd

What You Need

✅ MUJI jute bag (any size is okay)

✅ Paper napkins with your favorite design

The paper napkins were sourced from a specialty art paper store called "Rose Rose Rose" located in Waseda, Tokyo.

This store carries over 3,000 types of European-designed paper napkins, with a wide variety of designs.

The price is about 400 yen for five pieces.

➡ You can also buy from the online shop

➡ Many various paper napkins are also sold on Rakuten＊

@star.hikawd

✅ Mod Podge (glue)

✅ Varnish (matte coat)

✅ Sponge

✅ Two flat brushes

✅ Kneaded eraser

✅ Scissors

(Masking tape and chalk pens are also helpful)

@star.hikawd

The appeal of this DIY is that you can choose your favorite paper item design.

You can look for designs from artists like William Morris, Vermeer, Monet, or choose from brands like Marimekko and Polish Pottery.

You can also select napkins with Nordic themes, floral patterns, or maps that simply match your tastes.

It’s exciting to create different designs for each person, like “This design for ○○-chan, and that design for ○○-kun!” ♡

@star.hikawd

Steps to Make the "MUJI Famous Jute Bag"

Step 1: Decide on the design

@star.hikawd

Step 2: Apply Mod Podge (glue)

Use the decoupage technique to adhere it.

@star.hikawd

Step 3: Separate the top layer of the paper napkin

(Paper napkins typically have a structure of 2-3 layers. Here, you're using only the top patterned paper!)

@star.hikawd

Step 4: Use the sponge to ensure adhesion

@star.hikawd

Step 5: Once dry, coat the surface of the paper with glue

@star.hikawd

Step 6: Coat with matte varnish, and it’s complete once dry!

@star.hikawd

You’ll Want to Try This DIY♡

This is an original DIY for the jute bag using a technique known as decoupage (cutting out designs from paper and applying them to furniture or fabric, then finishing with varnish), which is a type of craft.

It's truly cute and stylish, and if this was distributed as a gift bag, the guests would surely be impressed ♡

@star.hikawd

I also feel like trying it with my current jute bag ♡

@star.hikawd