Yup

Have you ever spent a bunch of time perfectly wrapping a gift - folding, taping, ribbon-ing - only to realize that you don't have an equally perfect label handy? Well, that problem will be a distant memory once you take a gander at today's Instant Craftification project! These fun and easy fabric labels have a "hot" secret ... they've been laminated! A quick trip through a laminator is all it takes to turn your favorite fabric into sturdy tags that can be written on again and again with a dry erase marker. I think this may be my favorite Instant Craftification project yet, and that's not just the marker fumes talking.

Reusable Fabric Tags Tutorial

Supplies

• Your favorite lightweight cotton fabric(s), cut down to 8-1/2" x 11" sheets
• A thermal laminator and pouches (Note: see instructions below for alternative options for those who don't own a laminator)
• Sharp, precise scissors
• Hole punch
• String or twine
• Dry erase marker(s)
• Free, downloadable tag template

Begin by placing your fabric sheets into letter-sized (9" x 11-1/2") laminating pouches. I tried 5 mil and 7 mil pouches and was happy with both, so the thickness is entirely up to you. Set the temperature of your laminator slightly higher (10-15 degrees) than the recommended temperature for the thickness that you are using. You may have to play with the settings a bit in order to get good adhesion throughout your pouch, because the fabric will absorb a bit of the heat. No laminator? No problem! Most copy shops and mailing centers offer laminating as a service, so they'll likely be able to run them for you for a dollar or two.

Once the fabric has been properly laminated and cooled, cut out the label shapes using the free template as a guide. You'll be able to get 12 reusable labels from a single sheet, which is just awesome! Use a hole punch to create the holes in your tags. Cut your string to 8-12" lengths and tie them onto the tags. Now your reusable tags are ready to use! See? That really was instant.

A couple of helpful tips:

• You may be thinking, "can't I use paper instead of fabric?" The short answer is no. The long answer is that laminating film normally requires a border around the outer edge to create a seal, so if you use paper, moisture will wick into the paper and separate the layers. Since fabric is woven into a single layer, it will stay fused to both sides of the laminating film even without an outer border for sealing.
• The film may begin to stain if the writing is left on for long periods of time. I recommend cleaning them off immediately after use to prolong the life of your tags.
• You may have to send your fabric sheet on a couple of trips through the laminator in order to get the adhesive properly fused. Don't worry, this won't break the laminator or hurt your tags.
• I'm going to make up a few extra sets to give to friends as pre-holiday gifts so that they can use them for their own gift-giving. It's pretty much the easiest gift ever, and they'll be able to use them for years to come!