Directions to Make a Cardboard Toy Chest

Boxes

• A box with a lid will be easier to use than a box with flaps. The most common type of lidded box is a file storage container, which measures 24 by 12 by 10 inches. If you want a larger toy chest and can't find a larger box with a lid, you can use a larger box with flaps. Tape the flaps closed with sturdy sealing tape and cut the top of the box off to create a lid. If you like, leave one long side attached rather than reattaching it later with hinges.

  Use a heavy-duty box, because a toy chest will have to withstand daily use. Cardboard boxes come in standard, double-wall and triple-wall construction. Use a triple-wall box if you can find one; otherwise, use a double-wall container.

Decorating

• Using your digital camera, take pictures of your child with favorite toys, and of the toys alone. Print the pictures on copy paper in primary colors. Glue the photos to the box and lid, overlapping the edges to cover the cardboard completely. Cover the box and lid with clear contact paper or spray it with a clear sealer.

  Alternatively, write the child's name on the toy chest using stencils, markers and paint. Let the child draw pictures to complete the decoration, then finish the box and lid as above.

Attaching the Lid

• If you're using a box with a separate lid, turn the lid upside down and hold the edges even with the top of the box on one of the long sides. Mark two hinge placements about 3 inches from the left and right sides. Glue plastic hinges to the lid and the box with a hot-glue gun.