Making Gift Boxes

When I read this books title, I thought it would be about making boxes to wrap gifts in. That couldn't be farther from the truth. Although these projects would make great gift holders, all of them are gifts all by themselves!

There are 15 projects included in this book, and all of them are different and unique in their own way. Although this book is written for kids, I thought most of the projects would be fun to make for myself. There is a Garden Box, which looks like a picket fence with flowers behind it, that I thought was especially unique. I also liked the Burger Box, which is made using a tuna can, paper mache', and felt.

The book starts out with a handy list of supplies most of the projects need, such as cardboard, paint, and glue; although, each specific craft project has it's own supply list. There is also a section at the front of the book that explains various decorating techniques. Included here is paper mache' collage, painting tips, and hints about adding other decorations.

My daughter, 13 years old, had an easy time understanding all of the projects, but a hard time deciding which one to try first! The same goes for my 10-year-old son. As I mentioned before, all the projects are unique; and they wanted to try them all.

My daughter finally settled on the Photo Box. It is made using a shoebox, cardboard, a paper bag, a photo, pictures from magazines, and a few other craft supplies. The project was very easy for her to complete and the results were stunning. The hardest part of this project for her was trying to decide which picture to add to the top of the box.

My son chose to make the Rustic Twig Box. This was made using mainly twigs, cardboard, and glue! This project was easy for my 10-year-old to do, and he loved the results; we also had fun going for a walk to find all the twigs. He did need assistance using a utility knife, but that was about it. He now has a special box to hold all his CDs.

Older children, 10 and above, should have no problem understanding and completing these projects. Some of the projects do require the use of a utility knife, so there is some help and supervision that will be needed. Younger kids will enjoy making them too, with a little more help. Don't forget us really big kids, I can hardly wait to try making one myself!