Good Things Come in Small Packages

Once again its that time of year for gift wrapping and gift giving.  How many times have you heard people say "good things come in small packages"!  

Well here is an idea that I have been using for many years to make little packages for wrapping tiny gifts. 

All you need is some greeting cards (used ones work just fine), a ruler, a pencil and some scissors.  Almost all greeting cards are suitable.  Of course the size of the card will determine how big your box will be.  A 4 x 6 inch card (12 x 18 cm) will make a box that is approximately 2 x 3 inches( 6 x 9 cm).  Rectangular cards will make rectangular boxes and of course square cards will make square boxes!

Now here are the step-by-step directions for making your little box.

1. Cut the back and front of the card apart so that you have two pieces.  With a pencil draw an "X" diagonally from corner to corner of each piece.

2. Fold the two sides and the top and bottom of each piece in to meet the centre of "X".

3. Cut along the fold on the long side of each piece to where the fold intersects with the pencil line. Now you have three flaps, two smaller side flaps on either side of a larger middle flap.  Repeat at the other end of the card piece.

4. On one end fold the two smaller side flaps so that they stand upright, then fold the larger middle flap up and over the two side flaps. Repeat with the other end. Now you have made either the top or bottom of your box. Repeat the process with the other half of the card.  Since both card pieces are the same size, your top and bottom will fit snuggly together. If you like you can use glue or tape to hold the folded over middle flap in place.

5. Line your little box with some tissue paper, add your gift and a tiny bow or ribbon and voila your little package is ready for giving!  Your little box would be ideal for holding a tiny homemade truffle or after dinner mint and using as a party favour on your holiday table or how about nestled in the Christmas tree and filled a special little gift. 

Here are just a few little gift suggestions from iCraft that you might like to consider:

I have made these little boxes with children and adults. Both get equally excited when they see the results and can hardly wait to make the next one!   

You will soon get to know the cards that make the nicest boxes. When you start opening your Christmas cards this year you will know right away which ones will become next year's boxes!   This is not only an easy to make, last minute gift wrapping solution, but as an added bonus it will also keep your children or grandchildren entertained for hours!