Make Your Own Recycled Seed Paper Gift Tags

Two years ago I traveled down to Ojo Caliente, a healing spa outside of Taos, New Mexico, to grapple with my breast cancer diagnosis. This past weekend, I went back down to close the circle of healing as I wrapped up the major milestones of my treatment. The first time I was there I went to a yoga class and was given a small plantable piece of paper to write my intention on. I carried that piece of paper with me throughout the last two years and I returned it to be planted on Monday morning.

In a moment of kismet, as I finished opening the large stack of “Explanation of Benefits” documents from my radiation treatments and griping about how much paper was wasted by sending these documents, I stumbled on this beautiful reel. I decided I would try making my own seed paper and here is how you can make your own in five simple steps.

Step 1 — Gather Your Supplies

Old Paper
- This could be junk mail, newsprint, or any other paper.
Wildflower Seeds
- I picked native Colorado seeds for the bees and the butterflies.
Cookie Cutters
Craft Blender
- Do not use the same blender you use for your food, I’d recommend heading to the thrift store and picking one up.
Towel

Step 2 — Soak the Paper

Tear up your recycled paper into smaller strips or squares, place in a ball jar, and fill with water. Soak for a minimum of 2 hours or overnight.

Step 3 — Blend the Pulp

Dump the paper into a craft blender and blend the paper into pulp.

Step 4 — Make the Tags

Lay out a towel, place your cookie cutter down on the towel, grab a handful of pulp and push the pulp down into the shape. Use another towel or sponge to soak up the excess water, sprinkle some wildflower seeds on top and gently tamp them down. Carefully move the tag to a cooling rack and let it dry overnight, mine were a little thick, so they took a couple days. Repeat this step until you are out of pulp and have a handful of gift tags.

Step 5 — Punch and String

Once the tags are dry, punch a hole in them and pick your favorite ribbon or string to give them a festive touch. I love using Studio Carta’s ribbon.

Now, enjoy wrapping with your handmade tags and gifting a little more joy this year!

If you make your own recycled seed paper gift tags, please send along a photo or tag @craftingthroughcancer, I’d love to see what shapes you use and what you create!