How to Make Pirate Treasure Chests

Transform an empty shoebox into a pirate's treasure trove.

Making pirate chests is an excellent craft activity for a pirate-themed party, or just for a kid that is really into pirates. Fill the chests with pirate treasures, such as an eye patch, chocolate coins and a bandanna, and give them out as party favors, or let your little pirate store his fake parrot and hook in one. Customize the chest just how you want it, and add embellishments to make it really interesting.

Things You'll Need

• Shoebox or large tissue box
• Scissors
• Black construction paper
• Glue
• Printer
• Crayons
• Embellishments (jewels, glitter, etc.)

Instructions

1. Glue black construction paper all over the box to cover it completely. If you are using a tissue box, you will have to cut around the top of the box to make a lid, leaving the back of the box attached. Just cut the front and the two sides to form a "hinge," and then cover the box with construction paper.

2. Lay some construction paper inside the box to make it look realistic. Glue it down to make it more secure.

3. Download a template to decorate your treasure chest (see References). Print the template out, and color it as you wish.

4. Glue the templates to the treasure chest. The handles go on the sides, and the lock goes on the front.

5. Embellish the chest by gluing stones, glitter or coins to the top of the box.

6. Fill the box with pirate treasures of your choice.

References

• DLTK's Growing Together: Pirate's Treasure Chest Craft
• Enchanted Learning: Treasure Chest Craft
• DLTK's Growing Together: Treasure Chest Templates