How to Make Apple Boxes Out of a Shoebox

Film apple boxes get their name from apple crates.

Pretend you are working on a film production by making apple boxes out of a shoebox. Apple boxes are wooden crate-like boxes that actors stand on to make themselves seem taller. They are also used to stand lights, camera equipment and as makeshift chairs. Crafting a model shoebox apple box is simple, but it cannot be used exactly like a real apple box. Place only toy film equipment and dolls onto the otherwise realistic shoebox versions.

Things You'll Need

• Shoebox
• Pencil
• Craft knife
• White acrylic paint
• Craft paintbrush
• Beige acrylic paint
• Light brown acrylic paint

Instructions

1. Remove the lid of your shoebox. Turn the shoebox upside down to form an apple box. Real apple boxes have flat tops and are open underneath.

2. Draw a 3-inch-wide oval into the center of each small side of the shoebox. These are the openings that help you carry your apple box around. Cut out the ovals with a craft knife.

3. 

   The white paint acts as primer for this craft.

   Paint the entire shoebox with white acrylic paint to remove all the writing on the exterior of the shoebox. Allow it to dry completely.

4. Paint your entire apple box with beige paint to simulate the light wood color. Wait an hour and add another coat.

5. Add light brown acrylic paint with quick short strokes across the top of the upside down shoebox to create the wood grain. Paint the light brown so you see the brush strokes. Paint up and down quick strokes along the sides. Allow it to dry completely.

Tips & Warnings

• Use different sizes of shoe boxes and stack the finished crafts together.

• Create wood grain with a rubber wood grain stamp.

• Turn the apple box over to use as a pretend apple crate.

• Never stand on your shoebox apple box or it will break.

References

• The Black and Blue: How Do You Like Them Apple Boxes?