Decorated Boxes

by Mary Lynn Maloney, Inc. Prolific Impressions (Producer)

There’s a special mystique about boxes. They can keep things organized, hold our treasures, or conceal our secrets. That’s the inspiration behind this delightful collection of more than 35 projects for decorating ordinary boxes with fabric, paper, metal, wire, glass, and other materials—and embellishing them with appliqués, beads, buttons, photographs, artificial flowers, and even old costume jewelry. The projects include a Leather Valet to store keys and change, the Mermaid’s Mosaic Box (ideal for bathroom use), Lavender Matchbox Sachets, and even a Paisley Box Purse. The step-by-step directions introduce a wide range of craft techniques, from papier mache to reverse painting on glass. It’s an inventive way to recycle old boxes, and an inexpensive source of charming one-of-a-kind gifts.

128 pages, Hardcover

First published September 2, 2008

About the author

Mary Lynn is a mixed-media artist, designer, teacher, and author with a background in graphic design and a degree in arts and humanities. She grew up in a large Irish-Polish family, where the arts, reading, creativity, and imagination were highly encouraged.

Mary Lynn's designs are regularly featured in crafting magazines and books. In addition to her design work, Mary Lynn creates found-object assemblage art and collage that she exhibits in a local gallery. She lives in Port Townsend, Wash., with her husband, Victor Judd; their two cats, Simba and Loki; and 37 trees, which they haven't named yet.

Reviews

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good inspiration. Very detailed explanations.

[Dolldiva · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unique projects. I added some to my stash of to-do.