Handmade Boxes for Handmade Items

I've begun to make boxes for my knotting items that have sold, which in and of itself has become a fun crafting activity. So I decided to do a little "How-To" here.

This actually is a bit cruder than what I'm sure many sellers do, but for now, since my sales are spaced far enough apart, I find it highly enjoyable and rewarding. There was a recent article on the Storque (here) on using the Craft ROBO that would make this process a lot more efficient, but eh, I'm not THAT good of a seller to shell out $300! I find that a paper knife works just fine for me right now. =)

Step 1

I first create a template on my computer for the top and bottom of my box. I just use Powerpoint, and the beauty of this is that I can custom-size my box for each item. The bottom half will be slightly smaller than the top half, as you can see from the picture below (I've included all measurements in inches). I then make all the lines dotted and grey, and then print it out on cardstock (without the measurements, of course)!

Step 2

I then cut out my 2 halves using a simple metal ruler and a paper knife. I also use the knife to lightly score along the fold lines, to make for easier and more precise folding.

Step 3

Now that I have my cut out halves, I take the larger one (the top), and add my store name, stamp, and web address. This is easier to do at this step just because I can lay it completely flat.

Step 4

Now it's time to assemble the 2 halves of the box! I do this by glueing the four tabs first, and then folding down the second layer of each side to provide stability and a clean-looking interior. I personally like using rubber cement to assemble these, since I can apply it to each side that I will be glueing and allow it to dry before sticking them all together.

So now I have my box all ready to go!

I like to add a bit of tissue paper (which I'm reusing from when I bought plates/bowls/cups from Crate&Barrel), then put the item in, and fold the tissue paper nicely over the top.

Finished! All ready to be put into a bubble mailer with a thank you note and a business card or two, and then mailed out to its final owner!