Directions for a Homemade Keepsake Box

This idea can be applied to any box size or shape.

Keepsake boxes are often started after a couple gets married or has a new baby. A keepsake box is a place to store precious little items that are special, memorable and significant. A keepsake box can be purchased, like a small version of a hope chest, or even custom made. However, this can be costly. You can make you own keepsake box for less if you are on a budget. All you need are a few supplies and a little time.

Things You'll Need

• 1 square or rectangular hat box, new or used
• 1 roll of patterned wall paper
• Ruler or meter stick
• Pencil
• Scissors
• Dry cloths

Instructions

1. Measure across the lid, horizontally. Measure the height of an edge of the lid. Multiply the edge measurement by two, then add it to the width measurement. Measure across the lid vertically, then take that measurement and add the measurement for the two edges to it. Add 2 inches to the total width measurement and another 2 inches to the total height measurement to find the size the paper should be to cover the lid.

2. Decide how you want the paper's pattern to appear on the lid of the box. Use paper that is patterned and colored according to what the keepsake box will be used to hold, such as a nursery paper for a baby's keepsake box. Use the ruler and a marking pencil to measure and mark on the backside of the paper, keeping in mind the pattern on the other side. Cut the wallpaper using craft scissors.

3. Measure each side of the box, measuring horizontally. Add the measurement for all four sides together, then add 1/2 inch to ensure the ends of the paper will meet when it is wrapped around the box. Measure the height of a side of the box, then add 1 inch to that measurement to allow for the paper to fold down over the edge of the box.

4. Use the ruler and pencil to measure and mark on the backside of the wallpaper according to the measurements for the box. Cut the paper to size.

5. Make a 1 inch diagonal cut inward from each corner of the paper that will be used for the lid. Do this so the paper will be able to fold over the edges of the lid, which will help keep the paper secure and will make the lid look neat and clean. Use hot water to activate the paste on the backside of the paper, then place it on the lid of the box, centered. Use a soft dry cloth to rub the paper gently onto the lid, smoothing air bubbles out by rubbing them from them center out toward the edges.

6. Use hot water to activate the paste on the piece of wallpaper to be used for the box. Wrap the paper around the box so that the bottom edge of the paper is perfectly lined up with the bottom edge of the box and the extra inch of paper is all at the top. Use the soft cloth to rub the paper, gently pressing it onto the box sides, working air bubble down toward the bottom. Use the scissors to make diagonal cuts to allow the excess paper at the top of the box to be folded down over the edge of the box, adhering to the top inner lip of each side. Use the dry cloth to remove any excess water from activating the paste, which could damage the box.

7. Allow the wallpaper 12 hours, or overnight, to set and cure before adding keepsakes to the box.

Tips & Warnings

• Measure carefully and take your time.

• Use care and caution while using scissors.

References

• Rona.ca/decorations