Quite some time ago, when my Etsy shop was still open, a blog friend suggested that I sell inspiration kits to make the sachets I made and sold. The idea was intriguing, and although I didn't do anything with it at the time, it was always in the back of my mind. Now that I'm thinking of selling again, the inspiration kits seem more and more like a good idea.
I had an idea to spruce up a small paper-mache box that I could fill with the makings for a lavender sachet. I first painted the box in a pale pink (because you know I love pink!) and then decoupaged a sweet vintage graphic on the lid.
I thought the picture was too lonely and needed company so I added a pretty flower lace to two sides. Since I had the lace jar out, I found a scalloped white trim to add to the sides of the lid. It still needed something though.
That's when I added the buttons, and that's when I was happy with it!
Well, I was sort of happy with it. There are a few things I would do different next time.
1. I would tear the edges of the paper so it's not so straight and perfect looking.
2. I would probably put lace or fabric under the picture. It just needs a little extra something.
3. The trim around the lid would look better if it went around the top edge instead of being centered.
4. The inside of the box is also painted but I might decoupage something inside the box just for the surprise element when it's opened.
What do you think of those ideas?
And now I have questions for you.
1. The paper-mache boxes are not perfectly shaped or smooth. They bubbled up in some places after painting. They are less than perfect. Do you think this is something a customer would be upset about after seeing it in person?
2. Is this too much time, effort, and materials to put into a 99 cent box?
3. Am I just over thinking?
I would truly appreciate any ideas, suggestions, comments and critiques you might have.
very sweet box! I love the idea of a vintage box kit. And I don't think if the box isn't smooth it will matter. For me ... it would lend to the vintage feel! I like the idea of 'roughing' up the edges of the picture. I have a tool that frays the edges - I forget what it is called, but looks a bit like a paper cutter you'd use to cut newspaper articles. Lace under the picture could look great, but you'd need a thinner piece. I actually really like the buttons!And a great idea to put something on the inside for a little surprise. Great ideas!
ReplyDeleteOf course, I love the pretty pink box and appreciate that it is handpainted, decoupaged and decorated! So many wonderful details...I believe those buyers who are into vintage and shabby chic won't mind one bit :) You could use a special scrapbook scissor to cut the image and create jagged edges next time!
ReplyDeleteWhat a cute little box! I love all the fun details you added!
ReplyDeleteSince it has a vintage feel, I don't think the little "flaws" will be seen as bad, but rather as making the piece more unique and one-of-a-kind.
Hi A. :)
ReplyDeleteI love the way your box turned out :)
I agree with the other comments, if your market is vintage feel or shabby chic then I think people will like the textural quality and it gives it more character.
I think we always learn something new when we work on a "new to us" project and can incorporate it into our next project.
If you are going to be selling these lovely boxes, just remember to pay yourself for the time as well as materials.
Have a wonderful Monday, cheers, T. :)
Hi Annette! I'm behind on my blog reading and missed this one. I agree with the other comments and think the little imperfections are what sets it apart as handmade. If the paint bubbling the paper box bothers you, you might try putting on a sealer first and see if that helps. Looking forward to the next post!
ReplyDeleteI think this is adorable! All the little touches you added are fabulous. As for the bubbling up, I agree that it gives it more of that handmade feel to it. I suppose you could sand it off lightly for an even more worn feel, but that may be taking it too far. I think the time and thought you put into these overshadows a little bubbling.
ReplyDelete