This DIY decorative box didn’t start out as cute as it is now.
In fact, it started out as a metal office index card holder.
I found it at a thrift store for $3.99 and new it would be perfect for this project!
Next time you are at the thrift store, be on the lookout for a box whether it is metal like this one, cardboard, or wood. I see them at thrift shops frequently.
But don’t worry if you don’t thrift, I will link some up at the end of this post for you.
To turn this ordinary box into something special, I raided my wallpaper sample box.
I chose Schumacher Cody Snakeskin wallpaper in smoke.
You can purchase wallpaper samples from this website for $5 each.
My particular box took 4 samples to cover it, so right around $20.00.
However, you can use any paper you have on hand if you don’t want to purchase samples.
There is so many great wallpaper samples to match every color scheme/decor style.
MATERIAL LIST FOR THIS PROJECT:
Thrifted box, or new {choose something with simple clean lines, it will be easier to cover}
Contact cement or spray adhesive
Scissors or paper cutter
Plain printer paper or wrapping paper to make template
Pencil
INSTRUCTIONS:
Start by making a pattern for your box.
It is much easier if you cut a piece wrong, to mess up plain paper rather than your finish wallpaper.
I made a template for the top of my box, allowing the sides to fold under.
Then I make a piece for the bottom, followed by the sides.
Take your time doing this until you get the templates perfect.
Then trace the template onto the back side of your wallpaper.
If your wallpaper pieces are small, you’ll want to tape multiple pieces together on the back side with scotch tape.
This might be a good time to mention that if you are going to be taping the pieces together, you’ll need the patterns to line up.
So choose wallpaper with an allover pattern, not something very intricate unless you want to buy tons of pieces.
I found it easiest and neatest to use a paper cutter to cut the final wallpaper pieces out to ensure straight lines.
I also marked on the back with a pencil where the pieces go.
For example, “RIGHT SIDE, FRONT, BACK, BOTTOM, ETC.”
Use spray adhesive to glue the pieces on.
This glue is not very forgiving so once your piece is down, it will not budge, so pay extra careful attention to where you are placing it.
When it comes to corners, you can trim them and fold them in and under like you are wrapping a gift.
And finally, if you’d like to add a decorative handle, you can do that now!
Can you guess what my handle is made out of?
Mine is a wood handle from a foam paint brush!
I cut off the foam top on a chop saw and then glued the handle on with liquid nails.
I would suggest something lightweight and gluing it on with a strong adhesive such as liquid nails.
If you like crafting with wallpaper, you might like to try my DIY DESIGNER COASTERS.
Come back here on Thursday for yet another DIY using peel and stick wallpaper!
My first time trying out a project with this and it was so fun, I really think you’re gonna like it!
