Tape Roll Trinket Box

Upcycle an empty tape roll into a useful trinket box.

Supplies

Step-by-Step

1. Step 1

   For the base of the box, choose a circle die that is the same size or just slightly larger than the tape roll. For the lid, choose a circle die 1/4" to 1/2" wider than the tape roll. Finally, choose a circle die for the bottom of the lid just smaller than the inside of the tape roll opening.
   
   Die cut 5-6 chipboard circles for each size needed for the box.
   

   

2. Step 2

   Glue the cut circle pieces of each size together into three tight stacks. Line the edges up carefully to create a smooth edge on the glued piece. Press the stacked pieces under a book or heavy weight so they dry compactly.

   

3. NOTE:
   Be sure to glue the end pieces so that the unprinted side of the chipboard is exposed.
   

   

4. Step 3

   Center and adhere the smallest stacked piece to the bottom of the largest (lid) piece. (This will keep the lid from sliding off the box.)

   

5. Step 4

   Coat each of the stacked circle pieces with white gesso. Repeat as needed for full coverage.

   

6. Use a heat tool as needed to speed the drying process. Heat lightly, as overheating can cause the gesso to bubble.

   

7. Step 5

   Coat the tape roll with white gesso, repeating as needed for full coverage.

   

8. Paint the inside of the roll as well.

   

9. Step 6

   Prepare other embellishments for the box and coat them with gesso as well. Here, layered poinsettias were cut out of chipboard and coated with gesso, as well as a small wooden spool that will be used as a handle.

   

10. Step 7

    Mask off half of the tape roll using sticky notes, so that you can work with one section at a time.

    

11. Step 8

    Ink a large background stamp with Versamark or other clear embossing ink.

    

12. Roll the tape roll over the inked portion of the stamp.

    

13. Step 9

    Using white or clear embossing powder, coat the stamped design.

    

14. Heat to activate and set the powder, using a heat tool.

    

15. Step 10

    Repeat steps 7-9 for the other side of the roll.

    

16. Emboss the top of the box lid as well.

    

17. Step 11

    Give each piece of the box (lid, ring, and base) an even coat of acrylic paint. Repeat as needed for complete coverage.

    

18. Remember to paint the edges as well.

    

19. Step 12

    When the paint is dry, use fine grit sandpaper or an emery board to very lightly sand over the embossed areas, exposing the white paint beneath.

    

20. Sponge the edges of the pieces with permanent ink, if desired.

    

21. Step 13

    Adhere the tape roll to the base, centering it carefully.
    
    TIP:
    Put a heavy book atop the box as the glue dries for a stronger bond.
    

    

22. Step 14

    Prepare embellishments for the box top. Die cut chipboard poinsettias were used here – first they were painted with acrylic paint.

    

23. The flowers were then assembled around the spool handle with hot glue.

    

24. Step 15

    Add trim and other embellishments as desired.

    

25. Step 16

    Complete the project.

    

Video!

Your Turn

You've seen the tutorial, now you try it! We've got a section of the gallery set aside for Tape Roll Trinket Box. Try this technique, then upload your artwork to the gallery. Show us your creations!

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