Perk Up a Paper Mache Box with a Cross Stitch Design

Here's How:

1. Gather supplies. You will need:
   • small Cross Stitch design
   • plastic canvas
   • paper mache box
   • flat thumb tacks
   • felt, craft foam, or foam core board
   The design used for this project is the free Hardanger Steps and Stars.
   
   
2. Select a design about an inch smaller than the top of the box and stitch it on plastic canvas.
   
   
3. Prepare the box by painting it, or leave it natural as shown in the example.
   
   
4. Trim the plastic canvas to fit the box. It is best to make it slightly smaller than the top of the box.
   
   
5. Center the design on the box. You can "eyeball" it or use a small ruler for more accuracy.
   
   
6. Affix the design to the box using the tacks. Create a decorative pattern with the tacks or keep it simple and go around the edge in a straight line.
   
   
7. If the points of the tacks go all the way through the box lid, cut a piece of craft foam, felt, or foam core board to line the inside of the lid for safety when in use.
   
   
8. The box will make a great trinket or treasure box, gift box, or could also be made into a bank by cutting a slit in the top of the box.
   
   

Tips:

1. Take care to prevent buckling when affixing the plastic canvas to the box.
2. Need help? Get it in the About.com Cross Stitch Forum. Become a part of a world-wide stitching community.
3. Stay up-to-date with when new tutorials, articles, and patterns are added to About.com Cross Stitch. Sign up for the free newsletter today.