First, you start with 3 sheets of 12 by 12 cardstock in different colors. I used Close To My Heart Hollyhock, Topiary, and Crystal Blue. I asked Gracie to pick out one of my DCWV stacks, and she picked Homespun, a cute textured stack with glitter and lots of faux stitching. These 3 colors coordinated nicely. Leave one as it is, cut one down by 1/4" on two sides, and cut the other one down by 1/2" on two sides. Then, score 4" in from each side on all 3 sheets:
Now, I used my paper trimmer to cut out the 4 outside corner pieces of each sheet of cardstock:
Fold on the score lines using a bone folder to reinforce the folds, and ink the edges. I used Close To My Heart Saddle ink and sponged the edges. I almost always sponge the edges on my papercrafts, it gives it a nice finished look.
The next step is to adhere them together, only in the middle squares. They should be staggered in size so they fit one inside the other nicely. Use plenty of adhesive so it is adhered well. Also, you can make the lid to the box now. I used a 6 1/4" square piece of cardstock, and scored 1" in on all sides. Then, only on two opposite sides, I cut up to the score mark, folded the tab, glued the tab, and presto, I had the lid:
Now I was ready to add patterned cardstock. I chose several of the cutest sheets from that Homespun stack Gracie picked out:
I used my trusty ruler to measure the sizes they needed to be to fit just inside those flaps, matching them in a way that looked good to me. Since I wanted them all to be oriented in the same direction, I had to be careful how I cut them. If you choose patterns that aren't directional, you won't have to worry about that. I added ribbon, hemp, and brads to embellish. I was careful to adhere the patterned pieces after I embellished them so that the backs of the brads wouldn't show, nor the ribbons or hemp. I also made small envelopes out of coordinating cardstock and adhered them on. Love notes will go in those! All ready for pictures!:
