How-to: Invitation Box

I like all things magnificent and over the top, so when I saw that you could send an elegant invitation in a mini jewelry box, I knew I had to buy some. Then, I found out that they are at least $8 per box. I can't afford that. So, I decided to make my own out of cardboard. It's a lot of work, but for those who need a serious WOW-factor, it's worth it!

Supplies:

• cardboard
• fabric or scrapbook paper
• tape (I used masking tape)
• glue gun for fabric, adhesive for paper
• scissors

1. First, take your wedding invitation or a card the same size and trace out what size your box needs to be on the cardboard. Add some space for cushion and some for your fabric, if it's thick. Then, add tabs on all four sides about 1" wide.
   
   
   
   
   
   
2. Fold up the tabs of the cardboard, creating the sides of the box. Tape into place, using masking tape. If you're having a hard time bending the cardboard, use an X-acto knife to score it.
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. To add a top to your box, which is optional, place your box on a piece of cardboard and trace around. Cut out the cardboard and use masking tape to secure to one side of the box. Tape it so that the top will open and close.  The tape will act as the hinge. (Ignore the purple fabric in the photo.)
   
   
   
   
   
   
4. Next, cover the box with fabric or paper. There are several ways to cover something, so check online and pick the best process for you. I lay the object on the fabric and then wrap it around.
   
   
   
   
5. When covering the back or "shell" of the invitation box, be sure to use one continuous piece of paper or fabric.
   
   
   
   
   
   
6. When you flip your box around, you will have some crazy-looking fabric or paper-gluing job with the wrapped-over pieces showing. For this I take another piece of cardboard and cut it down smaller than the box. I cover it with fabric using the same wrap-around technique. Then, I glue the newly-covered cardboard down ugly side to ugly side to cover all the wrap-around pieces.
   
   
   
   
   
   
7. Next, you can decide how you want to close your box. You can use ribbon or a flower. I used ribbon as an example. Don't forget to insert your invitation before sealing your box.
   
   
   
   
   
   

For mailing you can either buy a USPS box or make your own using more cardboard. I plan on hand delivering mine (no box) like a present. This is a lot of work. If I paid myself by the hour, it's cheaper to buy these, but I don't have the money to buy them, so making them was the only option. You might be able to cut down time by only making wedding invitation boxes for certain people you are inviting to your event.