How To Make Your Own Storage Boxes

As an artist I have alot of art supplies but I have a very limited budget for organizational storage boxes. Many of us have a home office, or have letters, cards and collectible that we want to store and organize. Most storage boxes usually run from anywhere from 10 to 40 dollars a box.

So I decided to buy some kraft mailer boxes from a supply company for about 70 cents a box. Prepare to buy at least 25 to 50 boxes splitting the cost with a friend is a great option if you don't need to that many boxes.. Most supply companies have different sizes, shape and colors.

• boxes (preferably not folded yet)
• stencil
• paint (I recommend acrylic paint)
• paint brush, stencil brush, or sponge brush
• tape

Working with an unfolded box is easier than a folded one. If you buy boxes from a supply company they come unfolded. So I recommend working with the box pre-assembled.

With my boxes I only painted the top of the box and the front of the box. So first you need to figure out what part is the top of the box and the front panel of the box

Doing a pattern stencil will require some thinking ahead of time in order to get the result you want. It was alot easier select a single stencil compared to a pattern stencil.

For Best Stencil Results

• Use thick and smooth paint. I like acrylic paint if it seems to thick I add a little water.

• The key to creating a perfect stenciled image is to use a paint brush or a sponge brush by dabbing the paint on the stencil. Brushing the paint on the stencil usually causes bleeding underneath the stencil. Use a strait up and down motion until the stencil image is covered.

• Tape down the stencil every time. Having a stencil move on you is the most frustrating part of stenciling so to be safe and use masking or scotch tape.

• Wipe down the back of the stencil with a cloth or paper towel after each move to stop any transfer.

Assemble boxes after paint has fully dried. Add labels to create a finished product.

• Stamps - I love using stamps it is not always easy to get a perfect stamped image though so I advise practicing beforehand.

• Stripes - using tape and paint to make stripes is another easy idea

• Washi Tape - this decorative Japanese tape is all the rage these day.

• Stickers - applying or making your own stickers are also an option. Just make sure the will fully adhere to the box.