MAKE FANCY MATCHBOXES

Ditch the Bic and make some of these gorgeous matchboxes you can proudly display on your coffee table or vanity. With an economy pack of matches from the dollar store and a sheet of balsa wood from your local craft store you can finish a batch of these pretties for housewarming gifts for under $5!

What You'll Need:

Thin balsa wood sheet

Shop scissors

Matchboxes

Sandpaper 

E6000

Ruler

Pencil

Modge Podge or varnish in your choice of finish

Water colors, Acrylic paint (maybe a metallic or two)

Paint brushes

1.Trace two matchboxes (strikers facing out) on balsa wood and cut out top and bottom pieces with shop scissors.  File off any rough edges with sandpaper before painting.

2. Paint abstract patterns on top pieces (or both) and allow to dry before glueing.  Once dry, line up the edges of the matchboxes to the balsa wood pieces and glue on top and bottom pieces with E6000

If the printed edges of your matchbooks show you might also want to paint the boxes white for a cleaner finish.

Use a stack of books or drinking glass to keep the wood parts compressed while drying.

3. Apply several coats of varnish to create a lacquer look on your finished matchboxes. 

4. Stain the wood stems of the matches by dipping them in watered down acrylic paint or coloring them with a permanent marker.

Make several matchboxes at a time to gift along with your favorite scented candles for the holidays !

xo Lindsey Crafter