Make-a-wish, paper mache treasure chest
January 1, 2011 4:10 pm craft techniques
This project is more than just about creating a miniature treasure chest. You can also use it to make wishes.
I got the idea after reading, Ask and It Is Given: Learning to Manifest the Law of Attraction
You can personalize this project in any way you choose and don’t forget to place an item in the box and make a wish when you’ve finished.
Where can I buy art and craft materials?
Dick Blick Art Materials sell a vast range of art materials. It is an art supplies company that is based in the US.
If you order over a certain amount, shipping can be free within the US, conditions apply. Orders placed from outside the US will have a different shipping charge and may be subject to import duties. (Click on the shipping information link at the bottom of the page on Dick Blick Art Materials for details.)
If you are based in the UK, Hobbycraft is a good place to buy very similar art and craft materials.
How to create a treasure chest, step-by-step
You will need:
- a ready-made paper mache trunk or box
- white (PVA) glue
- acrylic or poster paints
- brushes
- metal foil
- craft knife or scissors
- metal ruler
- embossing tool
- brad awl
- round paper cutter
- assorted brads
- adhesive gem stones and beads
Sargent Metallic Acrylics are a good option for painting paper mache and come in an assortment of colours.
For more details, click on image
I used a punch to create the gold coins and the decoration for the top of the box. You can buy punches in many shapes and they are great for creating card embellishments.
For more details, click on image
Finished treasure chest
Here is the finished treasure chest. You can personalize the box as much as you like.
Step 1
Coat the paper mache box with white (PVA) glue and then give it two or three coats of gold paint.
Step 2
Cut strips from silver metal foil for decorating the edges of the box. I used a metal ruler and a craft knife. Children should be supervised by an adult and exercise caution when using sharp edges and objects.
Step 3
Attach the silver metal strips to the box. You can either glue them, or use self-adhesive metal foil. I also attached brads to secure it in place.
Step 4
You can embellish the metal strips before attaching them to the box. I used an embossing tool to write a motto. (Remember to write in reverse so that it reads the right way around.)
Step 5
You can also attach brads to the strip. Make a hole with a brad tool or awl, insert a brad and open it out at the back.
Step 6
Here is the metal strip in place on the bottom of the paper mache box.
Step 7
Using a brad tool or awl, make a hole to attach a charm keyhole to the front of the box. There are many brads to choose from.
Step 8
I chose this brad as it says "made with love". Very soppy I know, but you can add whatever you like.
Step 9
Attach another metal silver strip to the lid of the box and decorate it as you wish.
Step 10
I attached brass brads in various colors and some that were heart-shaped. It is good to use a contrasting color.
Step 11
If you've damaged the box in any way (as I did), you can easily repair it. First of all sand down any rough edges with fine sandpaper.
Step 12
Glue a piece of paper over the top and then coat it in white (PVA) glue and paint. It's as good as new.
Step 13
Decorate the top of the box with two metal strips and attach more brads.
Step 14
Line the box with material. I used purple felt and marked the size with a pencil, before cutting it out. Glue the felt to the inside of the box using white (PVA) glue.
Step 15
I created a decoration for the lid with an embossing technique also used in metal quilting. First of all, stamp or draw a design on the reverse.
Step 16
Using an embossing tool, go over the lines of your design making sure to press firmly.
Step 17
When the metal foil is turned over, you will see your design embossed on the front.
Step 18
I used a round paper cutter to cut out the embossed design. You can buy paper cutters in many different shapes.
Step 19
Glue the metal foil to the lid of the box and using an embossing tool, mark a design around the edge.
Verdict
Pros: Using a ready-made box means you can get on with the fun stuff. Paper mache is also great for decoupage.
Cons: The self-adhesive metal foil didn’t stick that well to the box. I also glued it and secured it with brads.
Summary: It is very easy to create pleasing results with a few materials and you can give the box away as a gift.
Jade :
Date: August 26, 2011 @ 3:44 pm
I can’t find the paper mache chest from Hobbycraft (as I’m from the UK) Please help!
artydash :
Date: August 30, 2011 @ 5:25 pm
I checked in the Peterborough branch of Hobbycraft and they have it. I would check with your local store if they can get it for you.