Decorated cardboard boxes

Decorate cardboard boxes with fabric, wrapping paper or faux leather to create an attractive display that's also useful for storage. I like to collect shoe boxes and packing boxes and then re-use them, and covering them up means you can put them on display.

 

YOU WILL NEED:

Cardboard box - with lid
Craft glue
Scissors
ModPodge or clear acrylic sealer
Paint and paintbrush
Fabric, faux leather or wrapping paper
Optional: Crackle medium

 

 

HERE'S HOW:

It's better to use boxes that have separate lids for this type of project, especially if you want to use them as part of a display. Use the lid and box as a pattern to cut the fabric or paper for covering. Cut away the corner sections to make for easy folding.

Apply a thin layer of glue to the base first and then place the fabric or paper onto this. Press down from the centre outwards to ensure there are no air bubbles. Apply glue to the sides of the lid and lift up the fabric to cover.

If you are painting the base of the box with paint, add a decorative effect by painting in two colours. Apply your choice of base colour first - we use a deep yellow - and let this dry before dry brushing a darker colour over the top - we used a warm brown.

 

To cover your box with a decorative fabric, cut the fabric to fit onto the box. Apply a thin layer of ModPodge or clear acrylic sealer over the box and press down the fabric. Use your fingertips to remove any trapped air bubbles. Once the box and lid are covered, apply 2 coats of ModPodge or clear acrylic sealer, allowing each coat to dry, to seal and protect your box.

 

Crackle medium is another way to add effect to a plain cardboard box and make it look more authentic. Apply craft paint in your choice of colour and then apply crackle medium.

the-craft-shop.co.uk