How to Make Decorative Bread Boxes

Bread boxes can add a decorative touch to your kitchen.

While storing bread in a bread box is nothing new, decorative bread boxes are making the kitchen fixture more popular than ever. Bread boxes have two functional purposes: to help hold in moisture to keep the bread from getting stale, and to help keep countertop clutter hidden. Bread boxes now also add to the style or decor of a kitchen.

Things You'll Need

• Bread box container
• Nontoxic sealant
• Paint brushes
• Acrylic paint
• Rub-on transfers
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Select the right container for your decorative bread box. Size is probably the most important thing to consider when choosing a container. To hold one loaf of bread, the container should be at least 12 inches long, 5 1/2 inches wide and 5 inches tall. Also consider what material you want your bread box to be made of; wood, tin, plastic, ceramic and cardboard work well. Whichever you choose, make sure it seals well.

2. Decide how you want to decorate your bread box. Although many options work, including hand painting, stenciling, sponge painting, decorative beads or trinkets and decoupage, rub-on transfers work well on any surface and are probably the easiest to use. They also come in all different designs and colors, including letters. Purchase the pattern or design that you like and cut it out, and then lay the rub-on transfer on a flat area of the container and rub it into place with your finger.

3. Protect the design on your decorative bread box using a sealant over the finished product. Choose a nontoxic sealing such as a clear water-based acrylic varnish, available in craft and paint supply stores. Cover the entire surface with a thin coat and let it dry thoroughly. Apply a second coat and again let it dry thoroughly. This will help to seal the finish on your bread box, making it easier to clean.

Tips & Warnings

• Apply a primer before decorating your bread box to help materials adhere well to its surface.

• Read the directions before applying rub-on transfers. Beaded bread boxes are decorative but can be difficult to clean. Use an acrylic water-based varnish to ensure safety around foods. Read directions on the sealant before applying to your finished project.

Resources

• What is a Bread Box?
• Breadboxes.net
• Easy Pattern for Wooden Bread Box