How to make your own Keepsake Box
The easiest way to start is to go to your local cigar store. They all have back rooms where they store their empty cigar boxes, and will be more than happy to sell you one for a few dollars. If you are worried about the odor, just put some baking soda in it and leave it open for a few days before you start working on it. For a few more dollars you can also purchase a box at a craft store. I have found the cigar boxes to be much sturdier as they are made from stronger wood.There are many different ways to decorate your box, and this month we will focus on paint and decoupage
This is an example of a box that you can create
Materials you will need :
wood box
cardboard liner for inside top and bottom of box
batting
fabric for lining and top of box
Hot glue gun with sticks or craft glue
decoupage glue
scissors
white acrylic paint
paint brush or applicator
small terry rag
dark brown wood stain
clear acrylic lacquer for finish
For the inside lining I used the balance of the fabric that I had set aside.
The first step was to measure and cut both pieces of cardboard to fit the inside lid and bottom of box.I found the weight of empty dry food boxes to be perfect for this application, but you can also use old filing folders.
I then placed the cardboard cuts on top of my fabric and cut the fabric leaving an outside boarder of 1/2 inch around.
If you would like a padded effect, as I did for this project you can also cut out a thin layer of batting to the exact size of the card board.
To put the liner together you will need to use a hot glue gun. This works much easier and faster than regular craft glue because the set up time is instant, and it's holding quality is better. You can purchase a small glue gun for just a few dollars at any craft or hardware store.
I started this project by applying two coats of white acrylic paint to the inside first, and then the outside of the box.
After the paint was dry I painted on and then quickly wiped off an acrylic dark brown stain to give the box an antique finish. I Let the box dry 24 hours before going any further.
The next step was to lay out the fabric I chose and carefully cut out the design I wanted to use, Making sure to save enough fabric for the inside lining. You may also use a design made of paper if you prefer, but you will have to find a coordinating fabric for the inside of the box.
After deciding where the placement of my design would be, I then applied a thin layer of decoupage glue to the entire top of the box. I proceeded to carefully place my cut out fabric pieces and smooth them down with a soft dry brush. after making sure that the placement was correct, I then applied another coat of decoupage glue, making sure to again cover the entire top of box. Decoupage glue comes in a flat or gloss finish. I chose the flat finish for this application. I suggest that you apply 2 more coats of decoupage glue, letting it dry a few hours in between coats.
Start by putting a dot of glue in each corner of card board, and then quickly lay down the piece of batting. The hot glue dries fast, and you should be very careful not to accidentally burn yourself.
Next lay out your fabric with the right side down and place cardboard piece centered with batting side down. The next steps are to fold over fabric and glue down all sides, making sure that the corners are secure. Repeat same for the other cardboard piece.
Now the lining can be glued to the inside top and bottom of the box.
When you have completed the lining, it will be time to give the outside of your creation a final layer of a clear lacquer acrylic finish
If you don't have the time right now for this project click on this link Baby Bear Keepsake and you can purchase this completed item for $49.00 today.
