How to make poly mailers

Poly mailers, also known as poly bags or poly envelopes, are a popular choice for shipping and storing items due to their durability, flexibility, and affordability. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make poly mailers at home:

Materials needed:

• Polyethylene or polypropylene film (available at craft stores or online)
• Scissors or a craft knife
• A heat sealer or a hot glue gun
• A ruler or straightedge
• A pencil or marker
• Optional: a cutting mat or other protective surface

Instructions:

Method 1: Using a Heat Sealer

1. Cut a piece of polyethylene or polypropylene film to the desired size for your mailer. You can use a ruler or straightedge to draw a rectangle on the film and then cut it out with scissors or a craft knife.
2. Place the film on a flat surface, with the shiny side facing up.
3. Use a heat sealer to apply heat and pressure to the film, creating a seal along the edges. You can use a heat sealer specifically designed for poly bags or a household iron with a low heat setting.
4. Apply the heat sealer to the edges of the film, starting from one corner and working your way around the rectangle. Make sure to apply even pressure to ensure a strong seal.
5. Once you've sealed the edges, use scissors or a craft knife to trim the excess film from the edges.

Method 2: Using a Hot Glue Gun

1. Cut a piece of polyethylene or polypropylene film to the desired size for your mailer.
2. Place the film on a flat surface, with the shiny side facing up.
3. Apply a small amount of hot glue to the edges of the film, starting from one corner and working your way around the rectangle.
4. Use a credit card or similar tool to spread the glue evenly along the edges, making sure to cover the entire perimeter.
5. Allow the glue to cool and harden before trimming the excess film from the edges with scissors or a craft knife.

Tips and Variations:

• Use a cutting mat or other protective surface to prevent damage to your work surface.
• You can add a flap to the top of the mailer by folding the film over and applying heat or glue to seal it in place.
• You can also add a label or address to the mailer using a marker or label maker.
• To make a reusable mailer, you can add a zipper or Velcro closure to the top flap.
• You can customize the size and shape of your mailer to fit specific items or packages.

Remember to always follow safety precautions when working with heat and glue, and be patient when making your first few poly mailers. With practice, you'll be able to create high-quality mailers that are perfect for shipping and storing your items.