Gratitude

"Appreciation can make a day, even change a life."~ Margaret Cousins

Tonight I made a little "Gratitude" box that I am going to give to my cousin, Dorinda. She is very deserving of this little box filled with various thank you cards. The thank you sayings came from SU's Much Appreciated 4 Pc. Stamp Set, which is very fun! As always I love the Tart & Tangy which is a blast to work with, the coordinating Summer Picnic Designer Paper....how can you go wrong? I just hope she enjoys this gift set as much as I do!!!

What you will need to make my Gratitude Box:

• 2 pieces of cardstock cut 7 1/2 x 7 1/4 inches (for the box)
• 1 piece of coordinating cardstock cut 6 1/4 x 3 5/8 inches (for lid)
  1 piece of coordinating cardstock 8 1/2 x 1 inches (for strap, if you would like to add one....I did not add a stap to this box)
• 2 1 inch circles (optional)
• 2 brads
• sticky tape, cutter, scoring blade
• Assorted cardstock/ images for decorating (I used Tart & Tangy & Summer Picnic Paper)

Step 1: Score your box pieces at 1 1/2 inches on each of the 7 1/2 inch sides. Score again at 1 1/2 inches on the 7 1/4 inch side.

Step 2: Cut along the scorelines on both pieces as shown. (Note: it’s better to cut UP from the bottom as this will reinforce the bottom of your box).

Step 3: This is important! On the piece you designate as the back piece (you choose), you will want o cut a 1/16 inch strip off the top (the side that isn’t scored) as this will ensure that the box fits snuggly together and lines up properly.

Step 4: Apply sticky tape to the flaps and fold under to make each 1/2 box.

Step 5: Line the 3 inside edges of the front piece with sticky tape and slide them together. I position the pieces together so they line up properly, then smooth them out from the inside.

Step 6: Score your box top piece at 1 inch on all four sides.

Step 7: Cut corners to create flaps as shown. Apply adhesive and assemble

Step 8: If you were adding a strap add one now with brads, so that the strap can be moved to take the lid off.

Step 9: Decorate your box!

Step 10: Box complete!

Inside of Gratitude Box