Make DIY luggage tags using Mod Podge, cardboard, and fabric! A fun, easy way to personalize your suitcase and identify it fast. No sewing required.
Let’s talk about baggage claim.
Specifically, that moment when the carousel starts moving and suddenly every bag in the airport appears to be the exact same shade of black.
You spot one. It’s not yours. You spot another. Also not yours. Until the carousel stops and you still don’t have a bag.
If you are looking to meet someone who has had their fair share of luggage horror stories, I’m your girl. I’ve been the one waiting when the carousel stops, multiple times.
I can’t tell you how many visits airlines have made to my place to drop it off (just call me Greg Focker). One time I even had the pleasure of having an airline attendant motion to a huge mountain of bags at the airport so that I could dig mine out myself.
I know I sound bitter, but I promise I’m not! It’s all part of the magic of traveling and flying. But that’s exactly why I started making DIY luggage tags.
Sure, you can buy tags at the airport gift shop, but where’s the fun in that? I’d much rather spend a few minutes with some fabric scraps and Mod Podge and end up with something that’s actually cute.
Plus, when your bag has a bright, colorful tag attached to it, finding your suitcase gets a whole lot easier.
What I love about this project is that it’s completely no-sew. Most handmade luggage tag tutorials involve sewing machines, special notions, and a level of patience I don’t always possess before a trip.
These DIY bag tags use cardboard, fabric, and Mod Podge instead, which means just about anyone can make them.
They’re also surprisingly durable. The layers of Mod Podge help protect the fabric, while the cardboard keeps the tag sturdy enough for travel. You can make a simple version or add a little window on the back for your contact information.
This is a great excuse to use fabric you’ve been saving for absolutely no reason.
Whether you’re planning a big vacation, heading out on a weekend getaway, or just tired of playing “guess which black bag is mine,” these easy tags are a fun way to personalize your travel gear.
This craft is quick, inexpensive, and they’ll help your suitcase stand out from the crowd before it even makes it off the carousel.
If you’re ready to get started, here’s the printable how to:
DIY Bag Tags
Equipment
- Computer and printer
Instructions
- Cut a base (2.75 x 4 inches) for your tag on cardboard or other thick cardstock. Cut two rectangles for the window piece if you are creating the version with it.
- Trace the cut cardboard tag onto your piece of fabric and cut the excess.
- Apply a layer of Mod Podge to the cardboard. Smooth the fabric flat onto one side and let dry briefly, then add another layer of Mod Podge on top. Let it dry.
- Once dry, trim the excess fabric. Use an awl to pierce through the fabric for the hole. You'll still have one blank side.
- To make a simple tag, print and cut the same shape with your details. Alternatively, you can write it. Mod Podge the tag with the printed information on the backside of your tag. Let it dry.
- Seal the both the front and back with another layer of Mod Podge and let it dry.
- To make one with a window: trace and cut another piece of fabric for the back of the tag (that is blank from step 4). Mod Podge the fabric piece onto the back of the tag and let it dry. Once dry, trim the excess fabric and use an awl to pierce through the fabric for the hole.
- Pick up the rectangle pieces from step 1. Trace and cut a piece of fabric for one of the pieces. Mod Podge the fabric onto the rectangle piece and let it dry.
- Once dry, trim the excess fabric around and inside the rectangle piece(s) (I'm showing two from two different tags here).
- Cut a thin plastic sheet (such as an acetate sheet) the same size as the rectangle pieces. Attach the three pieces together (one fabric covered window piece, acetate, than one blank window piece) with hot glue.
- Use hot glue to attach the window piece to the tag, leaving one end open to insert the paper. Then, insert a piece of paper with your address details.
Notes
Oh, and if you love this project, you might want to try a decoupage suitcase or a DIY suitcase with photos! You can go all out and NO one will mistake your bag for theirs, I assure you.
No sew & easy directions
What a great way to identify one’s luggage! This is so much more attractive than ordinary luggage tags.
There’s no mention of it, but would it be advisable to apply ModPodge over the fabric to provide more protection and durability?
Good point Lynn! Absolutely. A clear (brush on) sealer would make it last forever (even over the top of the Mod Podge).