How to make a gift box

Looking to add an extra thoughtful touch to a gift? Well then, why not have a go at making your very own DIY gift box? Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or another special occasion, making a custom box can be a brilliant way to add a unique, memorable element to your present. 

From easy boxes that can be made from card to pillow boxes perfect for smaller tokens, we’ve pulled together a bunch of different options (not forgetting to add tips on decorating too). So, let’s not waste any more precious time chit-chatting: cue our handy gift box making guide! 

Simple card gift box 

If you’re hoping to make a gift box with minimal supplies, how about this super simple one from CleverPoppy? All you’ll need are the following: 

• A4 card
• A ruler
• Double-sided tape or glue
• A craft knife
• Scissors 

And to assemble your box? Just follow the below steps!   

1. Mark up each edge: Lay your piece of card on a table (landscape) and draw a line down each side a width from the edge. Next, lightly score each line so that it folds easily when it’s time to construct your box. 
2. Fold each line: Fold each line inwards, pressing down firmly to create four distinct folds. Next, fold the short edge of your sheet upwards to meet the top fold mark (don’t forget to score this too). 
3. Cut the vertical fold lines: On both long sides of the sheet, cut up the vertical fold lines (making sure to only go as far as the first horizontal fold line). 
4. Assemble the bottom half: Grab some double-sided tape or glue and apply it to the outer sides of the tabs (first focusing on the bottom half of your box). Fold these tabs into a box shape and firmly press together. 
5. Construct the top half: Turn your attention to the top half of the box and stick the tabs together in exactly the same way. 

And there you have it: your very own gift box to fill with whatever lovely gift you please! 

DIY pillow box 

A pillow box is a great option for smaller gifts like jewellery, party favours, and keepsakes. There are plenty of printable templates online (like this one from GatheringBeauty) to make things even easier! After printing out your template, grab a ruler and some double-sided tape, then get stuck in: 

1. Lay your template on a mat and carefully cut it out using a craft knife. 
2. Score along the lines to create your folds. 
3. Fold along the lines you’ve just scored, taking extra care with the curved edges. 
4. Glue the side of the box together, allowing this to fully dry before moving on to the next step. 
5. Gently squeeze the sides of your box to make the top and bottom bow. Close the bottom flaps, pop your gift inside, then close the top. 

Origami gift box

For a simple yet impressive option, try making an origami-style gift box. All you’ll need are two square sheets of paper (one ½ inch bigger than the other), a ruler, and your hands!

1. Fold diagonally: Take your smaller square sheet and fold it diagonally into a triangle, then unfold. 
2. Fold corners to centre: Fold each corner of the square towards the centre so the edges meet in the middle. You’ll now have a smaller square with 4 triangular flaps. 
3. Fold the corners again: Next, fold each corner of the smaller square into the centre again, then flip the paper over. 
4. Repeat the corner folds: Fold your corners into the centre one final time, then unfold the paper to reveal your creases. 
5. Form your box: Lift the flaps along the creases to form the walls of your box, gently pressing down to make the base stand firm. 

To make the lid, just repeat the same steps with your bigger piece of paper then pop it on top (not forgetting to tuck your gift neatly inside). And when it comes to personalisation, we love the idea of using different coloured paper for a fun two-tone effect! 

Decorating your gift box 

Now that your box is ready, it’s time to unleash your creative side and get decorating! Here are a few ideas to make your box even more special: 

• Embellishments: Whether it’s ribbon, lace, stickers, or sequins, there are countless ways you can decorate your box. If you’ve made a plain card box, you could even paint it for a colourful, personalised touch. 
• Finishing touches: Add some tissue paper or straw to the inside of your box, and decorate the outside with twine or ribbon. 
• Don’t forget to personalise: Add a little note featuring the recipient’s name too. You could even add a sweet message to make the gift feel even more special. 

Hopefully our guide on how to make a gift box has inspired you, and you’re now ready to dive straight in. Whether you’re a crafting extraordinaire or a complete novice, have a go at one of the above for a doubly thoughtful gift, no matter the occasion. 

And if you’re looking for more gift-giving (and wrapping) inspo, just head over to the thortful blog. There you can read about how to wrap presents as well as what to do with unwanted gifts. 

Oh, and don’t forget to check out our wonderful collection of gifts too. After all, there’s no use in a gift box without a lovely little present to pop inside it.