Treasure Box

Do your kids have any metal lunch boxes hanging around the house? My son does (and it is always full of his 'treasures')! I was looking at it the other day and I decided it was a little ragged and needed a makeover.

This is an incredibly simple project! All you need is:

your favorite card stock
A metal lunch box
Some mod podge
Paint/foam brush
Corner rounder
An ink or chalk pad (optional).

Grab your box... Here we go!

Measure the length and width of the front/back and the flat space that runs around the middle.

Cut your paper according to your measurements. The front of my box measured 5.5X4" but I cut the paper slightly smaller so there was a 1/8" border around the paper. I cut my center piece into 3 strips that measured about 1.25X6" each.

After that I rounded the corners. (If you don't have a corner rounder, we have one in store that you're welcome to use!)

After the paper was cut, I used a chalk pad to 'distress' the edges of the paper. An ink pad can also be used. I love the way paper looks when "chalked", but this step is optional.

When you're all done, brush Mod Podge all over the front of the box. Try not to let it spill over the edge to the sides.

Put on a piece of paper and rub it in place, starting from the center and working out towards the edges. Then paint the center with Mod Podge. After this side has a chance to dry, flip it over and repeat this step on the other side.

Add one strip, starting at the spot where the handle is attached to the box. You will have to hold it until it stays in place. Flip the box over and repeat...then add the strip that runs along the very bottom.

The paper I chose had this cute section with airplanes so I cut a strip out and Mod Podged it in the center of the back piece.

I also cut some of the cars out of the paper and Mod Podged them around the center strip.

My "Treasure Box" sign was made using cut vinyl but you can use Sticker Letters, Card Stock Letters, or even dye cuts. I put my letters on a piece of white card stock, distressed the edges with brown chalk, and Mod Podged them onto the front of my box.

My son Loves this box and can't wait to put in his treasures!
You could also use it as:

a "mini suitecase". Just throw in some toys, magnets, crayons and paper and your kiddo's will be entertained for hours on road trips.

OR

a personalized Lunch Box for school lunches.

The possibilities are endless!