DIY Mini Gift Boxes w/ Pony Bead Handles

Any present will be extra special when packaged in one of these super cute boxes adorned with sparkly pony beads. You can decorate store bought boxes, which we found in white and kraft paper, or make your own customized boxes - we’ve got a free paper box template for you.

This box can be made with standard 8.5 x 11" size cardstock. You can use scrapbooking paper, decorative cardstock or make your own. Our example features ombre boxes made with custom painted 140lb watercolor paper.

Using pony beads to create a handle or pull tab, you can accent the box with an additional pop color and sparkle. You can also use alphabet beads for short words or initials. Make just one or a bunch as party favors, Valentine’s Day Gifts, holiday gifts or decorations. They are the perfect little gift box for handmade beaded bracelets.

SUPPLIES

• Pre-made gift boxes or to make your own you will need cardstock or heavy art paper (our example uses 140lb watercolor paper)
• Scissors & glue
  
• 20 or 18 gauge craft wire or 7-8" twist ties (pipe cleaners might work as well, but we haven't tried them yet)
• Plastic pony beads (you can use other types of beads, just be sure the wire fits through the holes)
  
• Graphite paper or a light tablet (or a well lit window)

INSTRUCTIONS
If you are using pre-made boxes, skip to step 4

1. Download and print the paper box template, trace it onto the backside of cardstock. You can use graphite paper, a light tablet, or a well lit window for tracing.
2. Cut out the box - cut along the solid lines, then fold along the dotted lines, punch a small hole in the lid where indicated (about 3/32" diameter). To make a hole you can use a hole puncher, pair of pointy scissors, craft knife, or an awl. If you want to paint or color your own paper, as in our example, do this before making the folds and gluing the box together. 
3. Glue the box together where indicated, allow to dry
4. Cut 7.5" of craft wire, bend in half into a U shape, thread on 12 pony beads, then thread both ends into one bead to create the base of the pull tab. Feel free to make the pull tab longer or shorter.
5. Put both ends of wire through the hole in the box lid.
6. On the underside of the lid, twist the wire together to secure the pull tab, trim excess wire
7. Adjust and shape the pull tab as desired

Further decorate your box with tassels, charms, letters, stickers, glitter, googly eyes, washi tape or other embellishments.

Don't forget to make a handmade gift to go inside this box, see our blog post of 10 Beaded Stretch Bracelet Ideas.

We'd love to see what you made - please share your pics or share on social media at Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest

Tag us @ponybeadstore #madewithponybeads #ponybeadstore