DIY Winter Craft Project: Handmade Gift Tags Using Winter Forest Digital Papers

When the winter chill comes, it’s the perfect time to add a handmade touch to your holiday wrapping. In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to create DIY winter gift tags using my winter forest digital papers pack. These snowy backgrounds make every present feel extra special — ideal for crafters, journal lovers, and printable enthusiasts.

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Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

You’ll need:

• The winter forest digital paper pack (high-resolution 12x12 JPGs) or similar such as my Snowy blue watercolor texture pack ; my winter forest abstract blue backgrounds pack or my Winter snow blue and pink texture pack

• Printer & cardstock paper

• Scissors or tag punch

• Hole punch

• Twine, ribbon, or string

• Optional: stickers, stamps, metallic pens, or glitter

Step 2: Print and Prepare Your Papers

Choose your favorite papers and print them onto sturdy cardstock for durability. Let the ink dry completely before cutting.

Step 3: Cut Your Tag Shapes

Use a tag template, punch, or freehand cut rectangles with angled corners. Mix and match paper designs for variety - each tag will feel unique!

✨Free Canva Template: Printable Winter Gift Tags

To make this project even easier, I’ve created a free Canva template you can use to design and print your own gift tags. The template includes simple tag-shaped Canva frames where you can drag and drop your digital papers right inside.

Note: This template was created using Canva’s free tag-shaped frame elements. If Canva updates its library in the future, availability may vary, but at the time of publishing, all shapes are included in Canva’s Free plan.

Once you’ve added your designs, you can print them onto cardstock, cut along the shapes, and embellish as you like - easy and perfect for winter crafting!

Template details:

• Format: US Letter (8.5" x 11") (on page 1) and A4 size (on page 2) 

• Includes 4 large tag shapes (approx. 3"–4" each)

• Canva Free account friendly. Uses only free shape frames available in Canva’s library

• Editable: adjust, resize, or add text as you wish

🖇️ How to Use It

1️⃣ Click the link below to open the Canva template.

👉 Open the Free Canva Tag Template

2️⃣ Add your favorite digital papers or designs by dragging them into each frame.
3️⃣ When you’re happy with your layout, download your page as a high-quality JPG, PNG, or PDF (for print).
4️⃣ Print on sturdy paper or cardstock, then cut out your tags.

Tip: For the best print results, use Canva’s “Download → PDF Print” option and set your printer to 100% or Actual Size so your tag shapes stay true to size.

Step 4: Add Details and Decorations

Once you've cut them out, punch a hole at the top of each tag and thread through ribbon or twine. Add a little sparkle with glitter accents or metallic pen borders. For a personal touch, write names or holiday messages in elegant lettering.

Step 5: Optional – Layer for Dimension

For a more creative look, layer smaller paper cutouts, snowflake shapes, or die-cuts on top. Use foam tape for a pop-up effect. The watercolor digital papers provide a dreamy winter base for all your embellishments.

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Creative Uses

These DIY tags aren’t just for gifts! Try using them as:

• Junk journal embellishments

• Scrapbook accents

• Holiday place cards

• Small art prints for winter decor

The Winter Forest digital papers pack includes the papers with a Merry Christmas greeting - perfect to use for your Christmas greetings cards!

Crafting your own winter tags is an easy, budget-friendly way to bring handmade charm to your holiday season. With digital papers, you can print endless variations and keep your designs looking soft, magical, and cohesive. 

A perfect project for cozy winter afternoons!