Three red, pink and white painted boxes with stenciled valentine designs, on a pink background
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Valentine's Day Stencils Stencil Tools Stencil Decor Paint Sets Multi-Surface Martha Stewart Holidays Gifts Gift Wrap Gift Giving For Him For Her Downloadable Files Boxes Acrylic Paint

Turn plain papier-mâché boxes into adorable Valentine's Day gift containers with stenciled designs and vibrant colors. These handmade boxes are perfect for gifting chocolates, jewelry, or heartfelt love notes. They're easy to customize in your favorite Valentine's colors and make your gifts feel extra special and thoughtful.

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Other Things You'll Need

  • 3 paper mache boxes (heart-shaped, round, rectangle)
  • Low tack stencil tape

Instructions: 

  1. Paint the base colors. Using brushes from the tool set, paint the boxes with your chosen base colors (white, pink, or red). Apply 2-3 coats for solid coverage, allowing drying time between coats. Refer to the photo for placement.
  2. Add contrasting bands. Paint a contrasting color band around the rim or middle section of each box. For example, add a red band to a white box. Let dry completely. Refer to the photo for placement.
  3. Stencil the designs. Secure a stencil from the Sweetheart Digital Stencil Bundle to the box lid using low tack stencil tape. Dab paint through the stencil using a pouncing motion with a stencil brush or sponge. Carefully remove the stencil and let dry. Refer to the photo for placement.
  4. Add more details. Repeat the stenciling process to add hearts, "XOXO," "HAPPY V-DAY," or other decorative patterns to the box sides or lids. Refer to the photo for placement.
  5. Let dry completely. Allow all painted boxes to cure for 24-72 hours before filling with gifts.

Pro Tip: Use an up-and-down pouncing motion when stenciling rather than brushing to prevent paint from bleeding under the stencil for crisp, clean designs.