Create your own poly mailer

A poly mailer! A great way to package and ship items securely and eco-friendly. Here's a step-by-step guide to create your own poly mailer:

Materials:

• 2-3 mil polyethylene film (available at craft stores or online)
• Scissors
• Ruler or straightedge
• Pencil or marker
• Optional: printed logo or design, adhesive tape, or a heat sealer

Design and Cut the Poly Film:

1. Determine the size of your poly mailer based on the items you want to ship. A standard size is 9" x 12" (23 cm x 30 cm), but you can adjust the size to fit your needs.
2. Cut a piece of poly film to the desired size using scissors or a craft knife. Make sure to cut it slightly larger than the size you want the finished mailer to be, as you'll need to fold the edges over.
3. If you want to add a logo or design, now is the time to do it. You can use a marker or a printed logo and attach it to the poly film using adhesive tape.

Create the Mailer:

1. Fold the poly film in half lengthwise, creating a crease in the middle. This will help you create a flat bottom for the mailer.
2. Fold the top edge of the poly film over twice to create a flap. This will help you seal the mailer when you're finished.
3. Fold the sides of the poly film over twice, making sure to align them with the crease you created in step 1. This will help you create a sturdy box shape.
4. Fold the bottom edge of the poly film over twice, making sure to align it with the crease. This will help you create a flat bottom for the mailer.
5. You should now have a rectangular shape with a flap on top and a flat bottom.

Seal the Mailer:

1. To seal the mailer, you can use adhesive tape to hold the flap in place. Apply a small piece of tape to the flap and press it firmly onto the rest of the mailer.
2. Alternatively, you can use a heat sealer to seal the flap. Place the flap on top of the rest of the mailer and apply heat using a heat sealer or a hair dryer. This will melt the poly film and create a secure seal.

Tips and Variations:

• To make your poly mailer more durable, you can add additional layers of poly film or use a thicker film.
• You can also add additional features, such as a reinforced bottom or a reinforced handle, to make your mailer more sturdy.
• If you plan to ship fragile items, you may want to add extra cushioning, such as bubble wrap or packing peanuts, to the mailer.
• You can also customize your poly mailer with different colors or designs to make it more visually appealing.

And that's it! With these simple steps, you can create your own poly mailer to ship items securely and eco-friendly.