How's that title for alliteration hey? Well the other day when I used up the last match in a box I was hit by the memory of a younger version of me who used to make empty matchboxes into anything the mind could imagine. I'm talking matchbox beds, treasure chests, miniature worlds, the works. So of course, being the overly nostalgic being that I am I decided to give matchbox craft another try and here's the end result: A kit that fits easily in your bag for those days when nothing is going right. You can use the items inside for yourself or for someone else, and of course you can completely alter what you would put in your kit too!
So let's go!
What do I need?
The first and very obvious thing you need is a matchbox. The one's we use are about 5cm long and 3cm wide. You'll also need a rubber band, hole-puncher, any paper or decorations for the box and of course, your items that you want to put inside!
What do I do?
1. Take the centre out of the matchbox and place to the side, then cut along one of the sides of the lid so you can lay it out flat.
2. If you want you can cut one of the edges into more of a triangular shape. (The edge which has the striker on it).
3. Cover the lid in any sort of paper you like. I chose this really cool shiny pink paper. I also then decided to cover the inside of the box in a light blue paper.
4. Take your hole puncher and make one hole to thread a rubber band through. This is how you'll keep your box securely shut.
5. Using a strong glue, attach only the bottom of the box section to the corresponding section on the lid.
6. Once everything's attached you can add separate sections into your box. To do this I just used a different piece of cardboard cut to size and stuck to the side of the box. You can have as many or as few sections as you want.
7. Pick your items to place inside!
Of course you can put anything in your box, but here's what I chose and why:
- Vial of fairydust: This is very potent stuff which makes it very useful; a little dab on each cheek is enough to make any bad day a little brighter.
- Clear Quartz Crystal: Probably the best all-around crystal, it helps to get rid of any negative energy, which we all need every now and then.
- Origami Crane: So that you will always have good luck, or to give to someone who might be down on their luck and could use a bit of yours.
- Glow in the dark star: A friendly reminder that you are made of starstuff.
- Wishing Stones: You never know when you need a wish granted. Each stone can hold only one wish so use them wisely! Give one to a friend who might need it or keep them safely tucked away for a rainy day. To use them keep the stone close by you at all times as you project your wish into it. Once it comes true you can discard the stone as it cannot be used again.
So tell me, would you like to make a magic medical kit of your own? What sort of things would you put in yours? I've had a wonderful idea for more matchboxes but that's a big project and will remain a secret until I can get it done!
x Erin
